Motor battery systems

ABSTRACT

A combined motor-battery system comprising an electric power source adapted to convert self-originating electrical current to mechanical power utilizing a set of common functional structures. Preferred embodiments include an electrochemical cell comprising field reactive electrodes that directly produce extractable mechanical forces in the presence of a magnetic field.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

The present application is a continuation-in-part of related applicationSer. No. 11/963,639, filed Dec. 21, 2007, entitled “MOTOR BATTERYSYSTEMS”, which is related to and claims priority from prior provisionalapplication Ser. No. 60/901,447, filed Feb. 14, 2007, entitled “MOTORBATTERY SYSTEMS”, the contents of both of which are incorporated hereinby this reference and are not admitted to be prior art with respect tothe present invention by the mention in this cross-reference section.

BACKGROUND

This invention relates to improved motor-battery systems. Moreparticularly, this invention relates to electric power sources adaptedto convert self-generated electrical current to mechanical powerutilizing a set of common functional structures.

The performance of most moving mechanical systems is dependent on theoverall weight (mass) of the system as it is accelerated or deceleratedby a force-generating component. For example, in a motor-driven vehicle,performance is substantially dependent on the power output of the motorin relation to the overall weight of the vehicle. The term“power-to-weight ratio” is often used as an indication of likelyperformance. In general, the larger the “power-to-weight ratio” the moreperformance can be expected from the system. Improving power to weightratio is accomplished in one of two ways. First, the power output of thedriving motor can be increased to more easily overcome the inherentinertia of the system. Secondly, the overall mass of the system can bereduced to maximize the motor's ability to accelerate the system.

Foremost among the challenges to designers of motor driven systems isincreased performance through the overall reduction in weight within thesystem. One possible approach to the reduction in system weight is theelimination of redundant structures within the system's operationalfunctions. Reductions in overall weight are vital to producing systemsof acceptable commercial performance and operational range. Thedevelopment of new technologies that effectively reduce redundancywithin operational structures would be of great benefit in a diverserange of technologies.

OBJECTS AND FEATURES OF THE INVENTION

A primary object and feature of the present invention is to overcome theabove-described problems. Another primary object and feature of thepresent invention is to provide a motor-battery system combiningessential electric motor and electrochemical battery functions into acommon set of structures, thus reducing overall mass of the system.

It is a further object and feature of the present invention to providesuch a system that is self-contained and carries its own source ofenergy. It is another object and feature of the present invention toprovide such a system that provides and stores electrical power. It is afurther object and feature of the present invention to provide such asystem that can be electrically recharged from an onboard or externalsource.

It is another object and feature of the present invention to providesuch a system that is configurable to function both as a motor and as agenerator (e.g., to provide regenerative braking in electric orhybrid-electric vehicles). It is an additional object and feature of thepresent invention to provide such a system that is readily controllable,allowing starting, stopping, and operating at various speeds. It is afurther object and feature of the present invention to provide such asystem that can be configured to function as an energy-storing flywheel.A further primary object and feature of the present invention is toprovide such a system that is efficient, inexpensive, and useful. Otherobjects and features of this invention will become apparent withreference to the following descriptions.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a power system comprising: magnetic field source means forproducing at least one magnetic field having lines of flux extending inat least one first direction; electrochemical energy source means forproducing at least one electrical potential from at least oneelectrochemical process; and positioner means for positioning suchelectrochemical energy source means in at least one position ofinteraction with such at least one magnetic field; wherein suchelectrochemical energy source means comprises electrode conductor meansfor conducting at least one flow of electrical current, derived fromsuch at least one electrical potential, in at least one second directiongenerally perpendicular to such first direction; wherein suchinteraction between such at least one electric current and such at leastone magnetic field produces at least one magnetic force acting on suchelectrochemical energy source means in at least one third directiongenerally perpendicular to both such at least one first direction andsuch at least one second direction; and wherein action of such at leastone magnetic force extractable from such electrochemical energy sourcemeans as mechanical energy.

Moreover, it provides such a power system wherein: such positioner meanscomprises motion enabler means for enabling relative motion between suchelectrochemical energy source means and such magnetic field means;influence of such at least one force vector on such electrochemicalenergy source means produces such relative motion; and such relativemotion comprises mechanical work extractable from such power system.Additionally, it provides such a power system wherein: such electrodeconductor means comprises magnetic field concentrator means forconcentrating such at least one magnetic field; whereby magnetic fieldinteraction with such at least one electric current is enhanced. Also,it provides such a power system wherein: such motion enabler meanscomprises rotator means for allowing rotation of such electrochemicalenergy source means about at least one rotational axis; such at leastone rotational axis comprises an orientation non-parallel with suchthird direction; and such at least one magnetic force produces at leastone rotational torque about such at least one rotational axis.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a power system comprising: at least one magnetic field sourcestructured and arranged to produce at least one magnetic field havinglines of flux extending in at least one first direction; at least oneelectrochemical energy source structured and arranged to produce atleast one electrical potential from at least one electrochemicalprocess; and at least one positioner structured and arranged to positionsuch at least one electrochemical energy source in at least one positionof interaction with such at least one magnetic field; wherein such atleast one electrochemical energy source comprises at least one electrodestructured and arranged to conduct at least one flow of electricalcurrent, derived from such at least one electrical potential, in atleast one second direction perpendicular to such first direction;wherein such interaction between such at least one electric current andsuch at least one magnetic field produces at least one magnetic forceacting on such at least one electrochemical energy source in a thirddirection perpendicular to both such at least one first direction andsuch at least one second direction; and wherein action of such at leastone magnetic force on such at least one electrochemical energy sourceproduces at least one useable mechanical force.

In addition, it provides such a power system wherein: such at least onepositioner comprises at least one motion enabler structured and arrangedto enable relative motion between such at least one electrochemicalenergy source and such at least one magnetic field source; influence ofsuch at least one force vector on such at least one electrochemicalenergy source produces such relative motion; and such relative motioncomprises mechanical work extractable from such power system. And, itprovides such a power system wherein such at least one electrodecomprises at least one magnetic field concentrator structured andarranged to concentrate such at least one magnetic field to enhancemagnetic field interaction with such at least one electric currentconducted within such at least one electrode. Further, it provides sucha power system wherein: such at least one motion enabler comprises atleast one rotator structured and arranged to allow rotation of such atleast one electrochemical energy source about at least one rotationalaxis; such at least one rotational axis comprises an orientationnon-parallel with such third direction; and such at least one magneticforce produces at least one rotational torque about such at least onerotational axis.

Even further, it provides such a power system wherein: such at least oneelectrochemical energy source comprises at least one electrochemicalcell; such at least one electrochemical cell comprises at least oneelectrolyte structured and arranged to support such at least oneelectrochemical process, and such at least one electrode; such at leastone electrode is conductively coupled with such at least oneelectrolyte; and such at least one electrode comprises at least oneelectrically conductive anode portion and at least one electricallyconductive cathode portion each one structured and arranged to conductat least one electrical charge generated by such at least oneelectrochemical process. Moreover, it provides such a power systemwherein: such at least one electrically conductive anode portion andsuch at least one electrically conductive cathode portion each compriseat least one magnetically conductive material; such at least oneelectrically conductive anode portion and such at least one electricallyconductive cathode portion are oriented to comprise at least oneinterstitial space; and such at least one electrolyte is laminatedbetween such at least one electrically conductive anode portion and suchat least one electrically conductive cathode portion substantiallywithin such at least one interstitial space.

Additionally, it provides such a power system wherein such at least oneelectrochemical energy source comprises a plurality of such at least oneelectrochemical cells. Also, it provides such a power system whereineach such at least one electrochemical cell of such plurality comprisesat least one electrical insulator structured and arranged to insulateelectrically such at least one electrically conductive anode portionfrom such electrically conductive cathode portion of at least oneadjacent such at least one electrochemical cell. In addition, itprovides such a power system wherein: such plurality of such at leastone electrochemical cells comprise at least one radial armaturecomprising at least one generally radial arrangement of such at leastone electrochemical cells about such at least one rotational axis; andsuch at least one magnetic field source comprises at least one statorstructured and arranged to allow rotation of such at least one radialarmature within such at least one magnetic field. And, it provides sucha power system wherein such rotator comprises at least one drive shaftstructured and arranged to transfer torque from such at least one radialarmature.

Further, it provides such a power system wherein such at least oneelectrochemical cells are electrically coupled to form at least onelaminated coil. Even further, it provides such a power system whereinsuch at least one electrochemical cells are electrically coupled to format least one parallel circuit. Moreover, it provides such a power systemwherein such at least one electrochemical cells are electrically coupledto form at least one series circuit. Additionally, it provides such apower system further comprising at least one current controllerstructured and arranged to control levels of current interacting withsuch at least one magnetic field. Also, it provides such a power systemwherein such at least one electrochemical cell comprises at least onesecondary-type cell. In addition, it provides such a power systemwherein such at least one current controller comprises at least onerecharging circuit. And, it provides such a power system wherein such atleast one magnetic field source comprises at least one electromagneticfield generator. Further, it provides such a power system wherein suchat least one magnetic field source comprises at least one permanentmagnet.

Even further, it provides such a power system further comprising atleast one commutator structured and arranged to control current flow.Even further, it provides such a power system wherein such at least onecommutator comprises at least one coordinator to coordinate theinteraction of such at least one magnetic field and such at least oneelectrical current. Even further, it provides such a power systemfurther comprising: at least one auxiliary energy source structured andarranged to recharge such at least one secondary-type cell; and at leastone external electrical connection structured and arranged to rechargesuch at least one secondary-type cell from such at least one auxiliaryenergy source.

Furthermore, it provides such a power system wherein: such at least oneradial armature comprises at least two discrete groupings of suchplurality of such at least one electrochemical cells; at least one ofsuch at least two discrete groupings is structured and arranged tointeract with such at least one magnetic field to produce extractablepower; and at least one of at least one of such at least two discretegroupings is isolated from such at least one magnetic field to allow atleast one alternate non-power-producing function. Even further, itprovides such a power system wherein such at least one alternatenon-power-producing function comprises heat dissipation from such atleast one of such at least two discrete groupings. Even further, itprovides such a power system wherein such at least one alternatenon-power-producing function comprises electrical recharging of such atleast one of such at least two discrete groupings. Even further, itprovides such a power system wherein such at least one radial armaturecomprises at least one flywheel assembly structured and arranged tostore extractable kinetic energy.

In accordance with a preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a method related to making at least one wound magnetic fieldcoil for a rotary electric device, such at least one wound magneticfield coil comprising at least one magnetically conductive core, suchmethod comprising the steps of: providing at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell; and winding such atleast one electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell around the atleast one magnetically conductive core to form at least onemagnetic-field-producing battery-coil; wherein such at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell is structured andarranged to produce electrical current derived from at least oneelectrochemical process; and such electrical current is usable togenerate at least one magnetic field within such at least onemagnetic-field-producing battery-coil. Moreover, it provides such amethod wherein such at least one electrically-conductive thin-filmbattery cell comprises: at least one supportive substrate structured andarranged to support at least one cathode current collector, in operativerelation with such at least one cathode current collector, at least onecathode; in operative relation with such at least one cathode, at leastone electrolyte structured and arranged to support such at least oneelectrochemical process, in operative relation with such at least oneelectrolyte, at least one anode, and in operative relation with such atleast one anode, at least one anode current collector; wherein such atleast one supportive substrate comprises at least one substantiallyflexible ribbon having a longitudinal length substantially greater thatits maximum width. Additionally, it provides such a method wherein suchat least one electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell comprises atleast one lithium-based chemistry. Also, it provides such a methodfurther comprising the step of incorporating such at least onemagnetic-field-producing battery-coil into at least one electromotivedevice structured and arranged to produce at least one useablemechanical force.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a combined electric motor-battery system comprising: at leastone stator and at least one rotor separated from each other by at leastone radial air gap for electromotive interaction therebetween; whereinsuch at least one stator comprises at least one stator magnetic fieldsource structured and arranged to produce at least one salient magneticpole oriented so as to face such at least one rotor through such radialair gap; wherein such at least one rotor comprises at least one rotormagnetic field source structured and arranged to produce at least onesalient magnetic pole oriented so as to face such at least one statorthrough such radial air gap; wherein at least one of such at least onestator magnetic field source and such at least one rotor magnetic fieldsource comprises at least one wound magnetic field coil; wherein such atleast one wound magnetic field coil comprises at least one magneticallyconductive core, and at least one field winding; wherein such at leastone field winding is structured and arranged to produce electricalcurrent derived from at least one electrochemical process; wherein suchelectrical current is used to energize such at least one wound magneticfield coil to produce such at least one salient magnetic pole; andwherein the electromotive interaction generated between at least two ofsuch at least one salient magnetic poles is converted into motive poweroutput.

In addition, it provides such a combined electric motor-battery systemwherein such at least one field winding comprises at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell. And, it provides such acombined electric motor-battery system wherein such at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell comprises: at least onesupportive substrate structured and arranged to support at least onecathode current collector, in operative relation with such at least onecathode current collector, at least one cathode; in operative relationwith such at least one cathode, at least one electrolyte structured andarranged to support such at least one electrochemical process, inoperative relation with such at least one electrolyte, at least oneanode, and in operative relation with such at least one anode, at leastone anode current collector; wherein such at least one supportivesubstrate comprises at least one substantially flexible ribbon having alongitudinal length substantially greater that its maximum width.

Further, it provides such a combined electric motor-battery systemfurther comprising: at least one at least one commutator structured andarranged to dynamically control current flow within such at least onewound magnetic field coil; wherein such at least one stator comprises aplurality of such at least one wound magnetic field coils, each onestructured and arranged to generate one such at least one salientmagnetic pole of such at least one stator; wherein such at least onerotor comprises a plurality of permanent magnets, each one structuredand arranged to generate one such at least one salient magnetic pole ofsuch at least one rotor; wherein such plurality of permanent magnets arearranged along at least one outer periphery of such at least one rotor;wherein such at least one rotor is rotatably supported within such atleast one stator; wherein each such at least one salient magnetic poleof such at least one rotor comprises at least one relational arrangementto each such at least one salient magnetic pole of such at least onestator enabling, in combination with the dynamic control of current flowwithin such plurality of such at least one wound magnetic field coils,rotation of such at least one rotor due to armature reaction betweensuch at least one stator and such at least one rotor. Even further, itprovides such a combined electric motor-battery system wherein such atleast one electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell comprises atleast one lithium-based chemistry.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a method related to converting a conventional rotary electricdevice to at least one combined electric motor-battery, such methodcomprising the steps of: substantially removing conventional magneticwindings from at least one magnetically-conductive core of theconventional rotary electric device; providing at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell; and winding such atleast one electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell around the atleast one magnetically-conductive core to form at least onemagnetic-field-producing battery-coil; wherein such at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell is structured andarranged to produce electrical current derived from at least oneelectrochemical process; and such electrical current is usable togenerate at least one magnetic field within such at least onemagnetic-field-producing battery-coil.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a power system related to the production of at least oneuseable mechanical force using at least one magnetic field sourcestructured and arranged to produce at least one magnetic field havinglines of flux extending in at least one first direction, such powersystem comprising: at least one magnetically-conductive substrate toprovide magnetically-conductive support; deposited on such at least onemagnetically-conductive substrate, at least one electrochemical energysource structured and arranged to produce at least one electricalpotential from at least one electrochemical process; and at least onepositioner structured and arranged to position such at least oneelectrochemical energy source in at least one position of interactionwith such at least one magnetic field; wherein such at least oneelectrochemical energy source comprises at least one electrodestructured and arranged to conduct at least one flow of electricalcurrent, derived from such at least one electrical potential, in atleast one second direction perpendicular to such first direction;wherein interaction between such at least one electric current and suchat least one magnetic field produces at least one interaction forceacting substantially directly on such at least one electrochemicalenergy source in a third direction perpendicular to both such at leastone first direction and such at least one second direction; and whereinaction of such at least one interaction force on such at least oneelectrochemical energy source produces such at least one useablemechanical force.

Moreover, it provides such a power system wherein: such at least oneelectrochemical energy source comprises at least one electrolytic layerstructured and arranged to support such at least one electrochemicalprocess; such at least one electrode comprises at least one anode layerand at least one cathode layer, such at least one anode layer and suchat least one cathode layer are structured and arranged to be ininteractive relation with such at least one electrolytic layer; and suchat least one anode layer, such at least one cathode layer, and such atleast one electrolytic layer are formed substantially by at least onethin-film deposition process. Additionally, it provides such a powersystem wherein such at least one magnetically-conductive substratecomprises at least one substantially ferrous material. Also, it providessuch a power system wherein: such least one substantially ferrousmaterial comprises at least one electrically isolative coating; and suchat least one electrically isolative coating comprises at least oneferrous oxide compound. In addition, it provides such a power systemwherein: such at least one electrochemical energy source comprises aplurality of discrete current-producing cells, each discretecurrent-producing cell of such plurality structured and arranged toproduce such at least one electrical potential from such at least oneelectrochemical process and such at least one magnetic force in thepresence of such at least one magnetic field; such plurality of discretecurrent-producing cells comprise at least one substantially radialarrangement; and such at least one substantially radial arrangementcomprises a central point of radial symmetry. And, it provides such apower system wherein: such at least one magnetically-conductivesubstrate comprises at least one disk-shaped member having a centerpoint substantially coincidental with such central point of radialsymmetry; and such plurality of discrete current-producing cells arearranged substantially symmetrically about such center point.

Further, it provides such a power system wherein: such at least onedisk-shaped member comprises at least one substantially planar supportsurface structured and arranged to support such plurality of discretecurrent-producing cells; such plurality of discrete current-producingcells preferably comprise at least one stacked organization extendingoutwardly from such at least one substantially planar support surface indirection substantially perpendicular to such at least one substantiallyplanar support surface. Even further, it provides such a power systemfurther comprising: such at least one magnetic field source structuredand arranged to produce such at least one magnetic field; wherein suchat least one positioner is structured and arranged to position such atleast one disk-shaped member and such at least one magnetic field sourceto provide at least one direct interaction of such at least oneelectrochemical energy source with such at least one magnetic force;wherein such at least one positioner comprises at least one magneticfield aligner structured and arranged to align at least one line ofmagnetic flux, of such at least one magnetic field, in at least onefirst direction, at least one electric-current aligner structured andarranged to align such at least one flow of electrical current conductedby such at least one electrode, in at least one second directionsubstantially perpendicular to such first direction, and at least onemotion enabler structured and arranged to enable relative motion betweensuch at least one electrochemical energy source and such at least onemagnetic field source; wherein such at least one interaction forceproduces such relative motion; and wherein such at least one useablemechanical force is extractable from such relative motion. Moreover, itprovides such a power system wherein: such at least one motion enablercomprises at least one rotator structured and arranged to allow rotationabout at least one rotational axis; such at least one rotational axiscomprises an orientation non-parallel with such third direction; andsuch at least one interaction force produces at least one rotationaltorque about such at least one rotational axis. Additionally, itprovides such a power system wherein such at least one magnetic fieldsource comprises at least one electromagnetic field generator. Also, itprovides such a power system wherein such at least one magnetic fieldsource comprises at least one permanent magnet. In addition, it providessuch a power system further comprising: at least one current controllerstructured and arranged to control movement of such at least oneelectric current within such at least one electrode; wherein suchcontrol of such at least one electric current within such at least onemagnetic field controls the level of such at least one interactionforce. And, it provides such a power system wherein: such plurality ofdiscrete current-producing cells are electrically coupled to form atleast one parallel circuit; and such at least one current controllercomprises at least one current reverser structured and arranged tocontrollably reverse the direction of current flow within such at leastone electrode. Further, it provides such a power system wherein such atleast one electrochemical cell comprises at least one secondary-typecell. Even further, it provides such a power system wherein such atleast one current controller comprises at least one recharging circuit.Moreover, it provides such a power system further comprising: at leastone vehicular wheel structured and arrange to providing rollingvehicular motivation using such rotational torque; wherein such at leastone vehicular wheel comprises at least one vehicular mount structuredand arranged to removably mount such at least one vehicular wheel to atleast one vehicle. Additionally, it provides such a power system furthercomprising: such at least one vehicle structured and arrange tomountably receive such at least one vehicular wheel; wherein such atleast one vehicle comprises at least one monitor structured and arrangedto monitor the operational status of such at least one vehicular wheel,and at least one user control structured and arranged to provide atleast partial user control of the operation of such at least one currentcontroller. In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, thisinvention provides a transportation infrastructure system related toservicing of at least one motor-battery equipped vehicle, such roadwayinfrastructure system comprising: a plurality of recharging stationsspaced along at least one route appropriate for vehicular travel use;wherein each recharging station of such plurality comprises at least onestock of motor-battery units, each one structured and arranged to beexchangeable with at least one motor-battery unit of such at least onemotor-battery equipped vehicle, at least one motor-battery exchangingapparatus structured and arranged to assist exchanging at least oneelectrically depleted motor-battery unit of such at least onemotor-battery equipped vehicle with at least one electrically-chargedmotor-battery of such at least one stock of motor-battery units; whereineach such motor-battery unit comprises at least one magnetic fieldsource structured and arranged to produce at least one magnetic field,and at least one battery structured and arranged to produce electricalcurrent from at least one electrochemical process; wherein such at leastone battery comprises at least one battery electrode structured andarranged to conduct at least one flow of such electrical current;wherein interaction between such at least one flow of such electriccurrent and such at least one magnetic field produces at least oneelectromotive force acting substantially directly on such at least onebattery electrode; and wherein such at least one motor-battery unit isstructured and arranged to convert such at least one electromotive forceto at least one mechanical force usable to motivate such at least onemotor-battery equipped vehicle. Also, it provides such a transportationinfrastructure system wherein each recharging station of such pluralityfurther comprises at least one motor-battery charger structured andarranged to produce such at least one electrically charged motor-batteryby recharging such at least one electrically-depleted motor-batteryunit. In addition, it provides such a transportation infrastructuresystem wherein each recharging station of such plurality furthercomprises: at least one motor-battery analyzer structured and arrangedto analyze such at least one electrically-depleted motor-battery unit;wherein such at least one motor-battery analyzer comprises at least onecharge-status tester structured and arranged to test the charge statusof such at least one electrically-depleted motor-battery unit. And, itprovides such a transportation infrastructure system wherein such atleast one motor-battery unit comprises: at least one vehicular wheelstructured and arrange to providing rolling vehicular motivation usingsuch at least one mechanical force; wherein such at least one vehicularwheel comprises at least one vehicular mount structured and arranged toremovably mount such at least one vehicular wheel to at least onevehicle. Further, it provides such a transportation infrastructuresystem wherein such at least one motor-battery exchanging apparatuscomprises at least one automated wheel-mounting apparatus structured andarranged to provide substantially automated removal and mounting of suchvehicular wheel. In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof,this invention provides a motor-battery vehicle system related tomotivating at least one motorless-vehicle chassis comprising: at leastone vehicle wheel structured and arranged to provide rolling support ofsuch at least one motorless-vehicle chassis; wherein each at least onevehicle wheel comprises contained substantially within such at least onevehicle wheel, at least one electrical motor structured and arranged toapply to such at least one vehicle wheel at least one rotational forceusable to motivate such at least one motorless-vehicle chassis,contained substantially within such at least one vehicle wheel, at leastone battery structured and arranged to supply operating electricalcurrent to such at least one electrical motor, and at least one mountstructured and arranged to rotationally mount such at least one vehiclewheel to such at least one vehicle chassis; wherein motivation of suchat least one motorless-vehicle chassis by such at least one vehiclewheel is accomplished by operation of such at least one electrical motorutilizing such operating electrical current provided substantiallyentirely by such at least one battery contained substantially withinsuch at least one vehicle wheel. In accordance with another preferredembodiment hereof, this invention provides a method related tomotivating at least one motorless-vehicle chassis comprising the stepsof: offering to provide at least one motor-containing vehicle wheelstructured and arranged to provide rolling motivation of such at leastone vehicle chassis when mounted thereon; arranging with at least oneentity associated with the operation of such at least onemotorless-vehicle chassis, at least one contract providing for the useof such at least one motor-containing vehicle wheel by such at least oneentity; and receiving from such at least one entity, at least onecompensation for such use; providing for delivery of such at least onemotor-containing vehicle wheel to such at least one entity. Evenfurther, it provides such a method further comprising the step ofestablishing, within such at least one contract, at least one leasearrangement for such use of such at least one motor-containing vehiclewheel by such at least one entity. Even further, it provides such amethod further comprising the step of providing within each such atleast one motor-containing vehicle wheel, at least one batterystructured and arranged to electrically power such at least onemotor-containing vehicle wheel.

Even further, it provides such a method further comprising the steps of:establishing a plurality of recharging stations spaced along at leastone route appropriate for vehicular travel use; and providing withineach such recharging station of such plurality at least one stock ofsuch at least one motor-containing vehicle wheels, at least onewheel-exchanging apparatus structured and arranged to assist exchangingat least one electrically-depleted motor-containing vehicle wheel ofsuch at least one motorless-vehicle chassis with at least oneelectrically-charged motor-containing vehicle wheel of such at least onestock, at least one charge-status tester structured and arranged to testthe charge status of such at least one battery, and at least onetransaction processor to process at least one payment transactionassociated with the exchange of such at least one electrically-depletedmotor-containing vehicle wheel with such at least oneelectrically-charged motor-containing vehicle wheel. Even further, itprovides such a method further comprising the steps of: exchanging atleast one electrically-depleted motor-containing vehicle wheel of suchat least one motorless-vehicle chassis with at least oneelectrically-charged motor-containing vehicle wheel of such at least onestock; testing the charge status of such at least one battery; andprocessing at least one payment transaction associated with the exchangeof such at least one electrically-depleted motor-containing vehiclewheel with such at least one electrically-charged motor-containingvehicle wheel.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides a power system comprising: at least one magnetic field sourcestructured and arranged to produce at least one magnetic field havinglines of flux extending in at least one first direction; at least oneelectrochemical energy source structured and arranged to produce atleast one electrical potential from at least one electrochemicalprocess; and at least one positioner structured and arranged to positionsuch at least one electrochemical energy source in at least one positionof interaction with such at least one magnetic field; wherein such atleast one electrochemical energy source comprises at least one electrodestructured and arranged to conduct at least one flow of electricalcurrent, derived from such at least one electrical potential, in atleast one second direction perpendicular to such first direction;wherein interaction between such at least one electric current and suchat least one magnetic field produces at least one magnetic force actingsubstantially directly on such at least one electrochemical energysource in a third direction perpendicular to both such at least onefirst direction and such at least one second direction; and whereinaction of such at least one magnetic force on such at least oneelectrochemical energy source produces at least one useable mechanicalforce. In addition, it provides each and every novel feature, element,combination, step, and/or method disclosed or suggested by this patentapplication.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows a generalized schematic illustrating the essentialoperation of a single motor-battery cell of a motor-battery systemaccording to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a plurality of motor-battery cellsoperationally grouped to form a motor-battery coil according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view illustrating a radial motor batteryaccording to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 shows a generalized schematic illustrating a preferred sequentiallamination of cell plates of the radial motor battery of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of a single cell plate of the radialmotor battery of FIG. 3, prior to assembly.

FIG. 6 shows a perspective view of the single cell plate of FIG. 5,configured for assembly.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the single cell plate (FIG. 6)coupled to a mounting hub of the radial motor battery of FIG. 3.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view, illustrating a progressive assembly ofthe radial motor battery of FIG. 3.

FIG. 9 shows a side view of an assembled rotor of the radial motorbattery of FIG. 3, including an enlarged detail illustrating a preferredsequential lamination of cell plates.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view illustrating connection of cell platesto an electrically conductive commutator bar.

FIG. 11 shows a generalized schematic illustrating internal electricalcurrent flow within the motor-battery cell.

FIG. 12 shows a generalized schematic illustrating a first circuitarrangement for electrical directional current flow external of themotor-battery cell.

FIG. 13 shows a generalized schematic illustrating a second circuitarrangement for reversing the direction of electrical current flowderived from the motor-battery cell.

FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 show generalized schematic views furtherillustrating preferred circuiting arrangements for connections betweenanode plates and cathode plates of the motor-battery cells.

FIG. 16 shows a generalized schematic illustrating a series-typeconnection between the individual motor-battery cells, according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 shows a generalized schematic illustrating a parallel-typeconnection between the individual motor-battery cells, according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 shows a generalized schematic illustrating a commutatorarrangement of a radial motor battery in a first conditional state.

FIG. 19 shows a generalized schematic illustrating the commutatorarrangement of FIG. 18 in a second conditional state.

FIG. 20 shows a generalized schematic illustrating the operation of atwo-coil-series-connected commutator comprising a first conditionalstate.

FIG. 21 shows a generalized schematic illustrating thetwo-coil-series-connected commutator of FIG. 20 in a second conditionalstate.

FIG. 22 shows a generalized schematic illustrating the operation of afour-coil commutator.

FIG. 23 shows a sectional view schematically illustrating a two-coilradial motor battery, according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 24 shows generalized schematic illustrating circuiting arrangementsfor the power commutators of a four-coil radial motor battery, accordingto a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 shows generalized schematic illustrating circuiting arrangementsfor the recharging commutators of the four-coil radial motor battery ofFIG. 26.

FIG. 26 shows a side view schematically illustrating a preferred coilarrangement, within a four coil radial motor battery, according topreferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 27 shows a sectional view schematically illustrating an alternateradial motor battery comprising a permanent magnet stator assembly,according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 shows a sectional view schematically illustrating an alternateradial motor battery comprising a permanent magnet rotor assembly,according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 29 shows generalized schematic illustrating a motor battery adaptedto comprise a flywheel-type power storage device, according to anotheralternate embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 30 shows generalized schematic, illustrating an alternate motorbattery comprising an armature having dual windings arranged to form atleast one magnetic-field-producing battery-coil, according to anotherpreferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 31A shows a perspective view of a magnetic-field-producingbattery-coil for a rotary electric device comprising at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell wound around amagnetically conductive core, according to another preferred embodimentof the present invention.

FIG. 31B shows a sectional view through the section 31B-31B of FIG. 31A.

FIG. 32 shows a perspective view illustrating an alternate radial motorbattery according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 33 shows a front view illustrating the alternate radial motorbattery of FIG. 32.

FIG. 34 shows a side view illustrating the alternate radial motorbattery of FIG. 32.

FIG. 35 shows a perspective view including a partial cutaway through thesection 35-35 of FIG. 33.

FIG. 36 shows a sectional view through the section 36-36 of FIG. 33.

FIG. 37 shows an exploded perspective view illustrating preferredcomponents of the alternate radial motor battery of FIG. 32.

FIG. 38 shows a diagram, illustrating a preferred method of forming themagnetic-field-producing battery-coil of FIG. 31A, according to apreferred method of the present invention.

FIG. 39 shows a diagram, illustrating a preferred method of modifying aconventional electric motor to form a preferred motor-batteryembodiment.

FIG. 40 shows a perspective view, in partial section, schematicallyillustrating preferred arrangements of an alternate motor-batteryassembly, utilizing a laminated plate construction, according to anotherpreferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 41 shows a diagrammatic perspective view, schematicallyillustrating four cells of the alternate motor-battery assembly of FIG.40, isolated from the assembly for descriptive purposes.

FIG. 42 shows a schematic diagram illustrating the primary preferredsteps in the formation of the alternate radial motor-battery assembly ofFIG. 40.

FIG. 43 shows a diagrammatic sectional view, schematically illustratingan alternate radial motor battery, constructed around the alternatemotor-battery assembly of FIG. 40.

FIG. 44 shows a diagrammatic sectional view, schematically illustratinga vehicle wheel incorporating a motor-battery assembly, according toanother preferred embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 45 shows a diagrammatic sectional view, through the section 45-45of FIG. 44, illustrating preferred arrangements of the vehicle wheel ofFIG. 44.

FIG. 46 shows a diagrammatic perspective view; schematicallyillustrating a preferred method related to the use of the vehicle wheelof FIG. 44, according to preferred methods and embodiments of thepresent invention.

FIG. 47 is a flow diagram illustrating the preferred steps of a method,enabled by the apparatus present invention, according to anotherpreferred embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE BEST MODES AND PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THEINVENTION

FIG. 1 shows a generalized schematic illustrating the essentialoperation of a single cell motor-battery 102 of motor-battery system 100according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferredembodiments of motor-battery system 100 comprise a range of compactelectrochemical power cells combining essential battery and electricmotor functions into a common set of structures, thus reducing overallsize and mass of the system. More specifically, preferred embodiments ofmotor-battery system 100 comprise self-powered, force-generatingapparatus having relative low weight and compact size.

In general, the overall performance of an electrically driven motorsystem, especially those comprising an onboard power source is directlyrelated to the overall weight (mass) of the system. A principalobjective in the development of motor-battery system 100 is systemicmass reduction through the elimination of redundant structures andfunctions.

The single-cell motor-battery 102, schematically depicted in FIG. 1,preferably comprises at least one energy-source component 103 and atleast one magnetic field source 106, as shown. Preferably, energy-sourcecomponent 103 (at least embodying herein electrochemical energy sourcemeans for producing at least one electrical potential from at least oneelectrochemical process) comprises electrochemical cell 104, preferablyfunctioning as the principal source of electrical energy during systemoperation. Most preferably, electrochemical cell 104 comprises at leastone electrochemical process for directly converting chemical energy toelectrical energy. Preferred embodiments of electrochemical cell 104comprise at least one electrolyte 108 structured and arranged tointeract with electrode laminations 110, as shown. Preferably, electrodelaminations 110 comprise anode plate 112 and cathode plate 114, asshown. Preferably, anode plate 112 and cathode plate 114 compriseelectrically conductive materials each suitable for supporting one-halfof an electrochemical reaction. Most preferably, anode plate 112 andcathode plate 114 each comprise electrically conductive metallicmaterials, at least one preferably suitable for use in forming amagnetic circuit (preferably comprising relatively low magneticreluctance).

In preferred embodiments of electrochemical cell 104, chemical energy isconverted into electrical energy by at least one chemical reaction (forexample, a reduction/oxidation reaction) that transfers charge betweenthe interface of electrode laminations 110 and electrolyte 108. Such areaction is responsible for electrical current flow through the cell,preferably generating at least one electrical current potential biasedfrom cathode plate 114 to anode plate 112, as shown.

Preferably, electrochemical cell 104 comprises a secondary-type cellsupporting cell recharging. A wide range of cell chemistries aresuitable for use in the construction of electrochemical cell 104, andare generally application dependent. Suitable cell chemistriespreferably include lithium ion, lithium-ion polymer, nickel-metalhydride, nickel cadmium, metal chloride, silver zinc, and similarcommercially accessible implementations. Alternatively, electrolyte 108may comprise a liquid acid, as in lead-acid battery technology, or maycomprise a gel impregnated into a porous sheet of plastic. Upon readingthe teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as intended use, advances in technology, etc., other celltechnologies, such as, fuel cells, high-capacity ultra-capacitors,super-capacitors, high energy-density cells, etc., may suffice.

Magnetic field source 106 preferably comprises at least one permanentmagnet or electromagnet, as shown. Most preferably, magnetic fieldsource 106 comprises an electromagnet powered by electrical currentgenerated by electrochemical cell 104. Preferably, magnetic field source106 produces at least one magnetic field (B), having lines of fluxextending in a first direction generally identified herein as magneticflux line 119, as shown. In preferred embodiments of the presentinvention, magnetic field (B) forms at least one magnetic circuit inwhich an electrode lamination 110 is a constituent component.

Single-cell motor-battery 102 preferably comprises at least one controlcircuit 116 preferably adapted to control, among other physicaloperations, the direction and level of electrical current flow withincells. The preferred electrical conduction and circuiting ofelectrochemical cell 104 results in a flow of electrical current (I),within electrode laminations 110, in a direction, identified herein ascurrent flow direction 118, oriented generally perpendicular to fluxline 119, as shown. Preferably, electrochemical cell 104 is physicallypositioned by a physical structure of the system to place electricalcurrent (I) in at least one position of interaction with the magneticfield (B), as shown (at least embodying herein positioner means forpositioning such electrochemical energy source means in at least oneposition of interaction with such at least one magnetic field). Suchinteraction between electric current (I) and magnetic field (B) producesat least one magnetic force (F) acting on electrochemical cell 104 in atleast one third direction, identified herein as magnetic force line 121,generally perpendicular to both current flow direction (I) and magneticflux line 119, as shown. According to known physical laws, when anelectrical current moves in a magnetic field in a directionperpendicular to the direction of the magnetic field, a magnetic forceline 121 may be generated in a direction orthogonal to the direction ofthe magnetic flux line 119 and to current flow direction 118.

Preferably, electrode laminations 110 are further adapted to function asa magnetic field concentrating-component concentrating magnetic field(B) (at least embodying herein wherein such electrode conductor meanscomprises magnetic field concentrator means for concentrating such atleast one magnetic field; whereby magnetic field interaction with suchat least one electric current is enhanced). Thus, the electrodelaminations 110 of electrochemical cell 104 efficiently combines threeessential electrodynamic functions, supplying a magnetic path for theconcentration of magnetic field (B), supplying a conductive path forelectric current (I), and supplying an electrode to support anelectrochemical cell reaction with electrolyte 108. The preferredutilization of electrochemical cell components to directly generate anextractable mechanical force is unique to battery power systems.

The embodiment of FIG. 1 provides a generalized schematic overviewillustrating the basic functions of the present invention. Practicalembodiments preferably utilize enhanced plate shapes, current pathways,and field orientations, as described and enabled below. Despite thesimplicity of the depicted single-cell motor-battery 102, underappropriate circumstances, the level of force produced by a single-cellembodiment is applicable to the driving of small or micro-scale devices.The concepts underlying embodiments of the present invention mayeventually provide significant advancements in technological areas suchas the field of nanotechnology. For larger applications, such aselectric powered vehicle systems, it is preferred to combine multiplecells to form apparatus of greater power density, as described below.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a plurality of electrochemical cells104 operationally grouped to form laminated coil 120 according to apreferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, laminatedcoil 120 comprises a sequential lamination of individual electrochemicalcells 104, as shown. Preferably, anode plates 112 are electricallyisolated from cathode plates 114 of adjacent electrochemical cells 104by isolative laminations 122, as shown (at least embodying herein atleast one electrical insulator structured and arranged to electricallyinsulate such at least one electrically conductive anode portion fromsuch electrically conductive cathode portion of at least one adjacentsuch at least one electrochemical cell). Preferably, individualelectrochemical cells 104 within laminated coil 120 are electricallycoupled (in series or in parallel), as further described in FIG. 11.

As in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the conductive laminations of theassembled laminated coil 120 perform three essential functions. First,the laminations function as a magnetic field concentrator. Second, thelaminations perform a current conduction function generallycorresponding to the coil windings that form the poles of a conventionalelectric motor armature (rotor). Third, the laminations provide thefunction of the electrode plates of an electrochemical cell. Thispreferred combining of functions greatly reduces the redundancy ofstructures required to support system operation. Such reductionsdirectly influence the size and weight of drive systems based onmotor-battery system 100. Significant size and weight reductions arereadily achievable in such systems, with corresponding increases insystem performance including operational range.

FIG. 3 shows a perspective view, illustrating radial motor battery 126according to an alternate preferred embodiment of the present invention.Radial motor battery 126 preferably utilizes a generally toroidalconfiguration of laminated coil 120, identified herein as motor battery128. Preferably, the magnetic field source of radial motor battery 126is provided by field magnets 130 mounted on each side of the face ofmotor battery 128. Preferably, axial gaps between field magnets 130 andmotor battery 128 allow relative movement between with adjacentstructures. Minimal gap distances are generally preferred, within thepractical mechanical limitations of the materials, thus minimizingoverall field reluctance losses within the magnetic circuit. Magneticorientations within field magnets 130 are generally indicated by thelarger arrow depictions. Electrical current (I) in motor battery 128(generally indicated by the small arrow depictions applied to theexternal surface of the rotor) is acted upon by field magnets 130 toprovide a torque force applied about rotational axis 132, as shown.Current flow is regulated by at least one control, such as, for example,by electrical commutation, as further described below. It is noted thatmotor battery 128 both stores and supplies electrical power used tooperate radial motor battery 126. It is further noted that, theabove-described structures and arrangements of motor battery 128 enablethe development of power generation (generator) embodiments ofmotor-battery system 100. In such embodiments, a mechanical forceapplied to the cells is preferably used to generate electrical currentthat is subsequently stored within the same.

Motor battery 128 preferably comprises a motion-enabling structureallowing motion relative to this stator-like assembly of field magnets130 (at least embodying herein wherein such positioner means comprisesmotion enabler means for enabling relative motion between suchelectrochemical energy source means and such magnetic field means).Preferably, motor battery 128 is adapted to rotate about rotational axis132, thus forming armature 136 (at least embodying herein such motionenabler means comprises rotator means for allowing rotation of suchelectrochemical energy source means about at least one rotational axis).Rotational axis 132 preferably comprises an orientation non-parallelwith the magnetic force lines (magnetic force line 121 of FIG. 1)produced by the interaction of the electrical currents within themagnetic fields. Field magnets 130 preferably comprise magneticpole-shoes 134 functioning to direct the magnetic field across anextended region of interaction within motor battery 128. Note that inthe preferred configuration of radial motor battery 126, power densityis increased through the development of multiple magnetic circuitsinteracting with motor battery 128, as shown.

Preferably, a coaxial placement of a drive shaft along rotational axis132 (mechanically coupled to armature 136) produces torque on the shaftduring system operation. Such torque is extractable from the system asuseful mechanical shaft power. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asintended use, advances in technology, etc., other motion arrangements,such as, linear-motion devices, linear actuators, etc., may suffice.Thus, motor battery 128, preferably comprising a substantially unitarystructure, preferably combines, within common structures, the functionsof electrical power storage, electrical power supply, and electricalmechanical power conversion.

FIG. 4 shows a generalized schematic illustrating specialty-shapedelectrode conductors 110 identified herein as cell plates 140.Preferably, the conductive cell plates 140 of radial motor battery 126are divided into two generally symmetrical conductive regions separatedby nonconductive region 142, as shown. Laminated assembly of thispreferred configuration produces sets of adjacent electrochemical cells104 linked by a common conductive segment 127, as shown. Preferably,flow of electrical current through the cell plates 140 occurs in agenerally semi-circular manner, flowing in a first direction within cellplates 140A of a first side, and in a generally opposing directionwithin cell plates 140B of the opposing side (as generally indicated bythe arrow depictions). Referring again to the diagram of FIG. 3, cellplates 140 are preferably oriented within motor battery 128 such thatinteraction between the magnetic fields and depicted current flowsproduces magnetic forces extending along the lines non-intersecting andnon-parallel to rotational axis 132, more specifically, alongnon-intersecting lines of force extending generally perpendicularly torotational axis 132, as shown.

FIG. 5 depicts a preferred refinement to the design of cell plate 140,hereinafter referred to as cell plate 140′, as shown. Preferably, cellplate 140′ is depicted in an initial flattened configuration consistentwith anticipated fabrication methodologies. In volume production, cellplate 140′ may preferably comprise a rolled or molded material in whichthe central thickness of the plate gradually increases to accommodatethe inherent variation in lamination thickness requirements progressingfrom the central rotational axis to the outer rotor circumference. Cellplate 140′ preferably comprises an elongated planar member comprising agenerally symmetrical mid-length offset, as shown. Preferably, eachresulting offset section comprises a terminating extension 144 used toelectrically couple cell plate 140′ to an external control circuit. FIG.6 shows a perspective view of the single cell plate 140′ of FIG. 5,configured for assembly. Preferably, cell plate 140′ is modified to formthe depicted arch-shaped member for assembly to commutator hub 146 (ofFIG. 7). Preferably, flow of electrical current through cell plate 140′occurs in a generally semi-circular manner, flowing in a first directionwithin one offset side of the cell plate and in a generally opposingdirection within the opposing offset side of the cell plate, as shown bythe arrow depictions. Preferably, conductive segment 127′ provides aconductive link between the offset sides of cell plate 140′, as shown.

FIG. 7 shows a perspective view of the single cell plate 140′ assembledto commutator hub 146 of motor battery 128. Preferably, each terminatingextension 144 is mounted to commutator hub 146 in a position appropriateto the commutation operations of the armature, as further describedbelow.

FIG. 8 shows a perspective view, illustrating a progressive assembly ofmotor battery 128. Preferably, cell plates 140′ are added to motorbattery 128 in an interleaving sequence, as shown. Preferably, layers ofelectrolyte 108 and isolative laminations 122 are sequentiallyintroduced during cell plate assembly to form pluralities ofelectrochemical cells 104, as shown in FIG. 2. Alternately, thoseskilled in the art will now appreciate that partial preassembly ofelectrochemical cells 104 may facilitate fabrication and/or reducefabrication costs. Motor battery 128 may preferably compriseapplication-appropriate quantities of electrochemical cells 104preferably matching operational performance, cost, and similar designcriteria.

Preferably, the cell plates on the near side of the rotor areelectrically isolated from the cell plates on the far side of the rotorby insulating disk 148, as shown. A preferred embodiment of insulatingdisk 148 comprises an iron disk with an isolative material applied toits outer surface. Such an iron disk provides an efficient path for themagnetic circuit to follow. Alternately preferably, additionalinsulating laminations or nonconductive films may be used as alternatemeans for electrically isolating adjacent cells. Preferably, laminationswithin motor battery 128 are mechanically coupled to form asubstantially unitary structure capable of transferring such mechanicalforces to output shaft of armature 136.

FIG. 9 shows a schematic side view of an assembled armature 136,comprising motor battery 128, including an enlarged detail illustratingpreferred sequential laminations of a laminated coil 120. It is notedthat the lamination of anode plate 112, electrolyte 108, and cathodeplate 114 preferably form a single electrochemical cell 104 withinlaminated coil 120. Isolative laminations 122 preferably separateadjacent electrochemical cells 104, as shown.

A single motor battery 128 may preferably comprise a single or multiplegroupings of discrete laminated coils 120. Preferably, laminated coils120 may be partially or fully encapsulated in a substantially solidmatrix to assist in controlling structural forces developed duringrotation. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those ofordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as intended use, cost factors,advances in technology, etc., other lamination arrangements, such as,for example, the use of non-curvilinear plates, additional laminations(providing catalysts, current control, heat dissipation), etc., maysuffice.

FIG. 10 shows a perspective view illustrating connection of terminatingextensions 144 of adjacent cell plates 140′ to an electricallyconductive commutator bar 150 of commutator hub 146. Preferably,commutator hub 146 comprises a circumferentially positioned system ofcommutator bars 150 preferably functioning to electrically couple one ormore cell plates 140′ to a commutator assembly of radial motor battery126. Preferably, cell plates 140′ may be connected to commutator bars150 individually, in series, or in parallel electrical configurations,as described below. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as intended use,expected service life, etc., other cell integration arrangements, suchas, designing laminated coils to be a serviceable component allowing forremoval and modular replacement, utilizing easily manipulated electricalcouplings to facilitate service and coil renewal, designing a rotor tobe sealed and to contain a liquid electrolyte between spacedlaminations, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 11 through FIG. 13 schematically illustrate various electricalcurrent flow arrangements instructive in the understanding ofcommutation methodologies within preferred embodiments of radial motorbattery 126. FIG. 11 shows a generalized schematic illustrating internalelectrical current flow within electrode laminations 110 ofelectrochemical cell 104. Commutation in radial motor battery 126 andsimilar embodiments of motor-battery system 100 is fundamentallydifferent from commutation in conventional electric motors where theobjective is to maintain the direction of the current in the externalelectrical source and reverse its direction through the motor windings.In the embodiments of motor-battery system 100, there is no externalcurrent source. The electrical current source is self-generated(originating within the embodiment of motor-battery system 100 itself)and is always in the same direction, from cathode plate 114 to anodeplate 112, as shown.

FIG. 12 shows a generalized schematic illustrating first circuitarrangement 152 for directional electrical current flow through externalcircuit 154 of electrochemical cell 104. Preferably, the radialdirection of the electrical current through the length of anode plate112 is dependent on the location of brushes 156 that complete thecircuit through external circuit 154, as shown. In the configurationshown in FIG. 12, brushes 156 are arranged so the current flows throughanode plate 112 from the top to the bottom. FIG. 13 shows a generalizedschematic illustrating second circuit arrangement 158 for reversing thedirection of electrical current flow derived from electrochemical cell104. In the configuration shown in FIG. 13, brushes 156 are arranged sothe current flows through anode plate 112 from the bottom to the top.Note that this reverses the direction of the current through externalcircuit 154.

FIG. 14 and FIG. 15 show generalized schematic views furtherillustrating preferred circuiting arrangements for connections betweenanode plates 112 and cathode plates 114 of electrochemical cells 104.Note that in each method, electrical conductors 190 may be brought outsideways, as shown. Thus, one electrical conductor 190 may preferablyconnect to a commutator bar 150 on the front of motor battery 128 (seeFIG. 8) and the other electrical conductor 190 may preferably connect toa second commutator bar 150 on the back side of motor battery 128.Alternatively, both electrical conductors 190 may preferably be broughtout either the front or the back side of motor battery 128 and connectedto the bars of a two-level commutator. Preferably, the direction ofelectrical current flow is dependent on the connection method used, asshown.

FIG. 16 shows a generalized schematic illustrating a series-typeconnection 192 between the individual electrochemical cells 104,according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.Preferably, to form a series-type connection between two or more sets ofelectrochemical cells 104, electrical conductors 190 are connected inseries before they are coupled to the commutator bars. Any number ofcells may be so-connected. The direction of the current through theseries-connected cells can also be in either direction. FIG. 17 shows ageneralized schematic illustrating parallel-type connection 194 betweenindividual electrochemical cells 104, according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention. Thus, electrochemical cells 104 maybe electrically coupled to provide current at various voltages, or atvarious levels of wattage, as required by the application.

FIG. 18 shows a generalized schematic illustrating commutator hub 146comprising commutator arrangement 160 in first rotational position 162.For clarity, the majority of electrochemical cells 104 have been omittedfrom the view. Two independent conductive regions 167 are preferablylocated circumferentially about commutator hub 146, as shown.Preferably, conductive regions 167 are electrically coupled tocommutator bars 150 supporting terminating extensions 144 of thedepicted electrochemical cells 104, as shown. Brushes 156 are preferablypositioned on the opposite sides of commutator hub 146 and are eachadapted to electrically contact conductive regions 167 during rotationof commutator hub 146, as shown. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asintended use, etc., other brush arrangements, such as electronic brushequivalents, etc., may suffice.

In first conditional state 162, the function of brushes 156 at the 0degree and 180 degree marks of commutator hub 146 is to form a completecircuit path to external circuit 154, directing current through externalcircuit 154 in the depicted direction.

FIG. 19 shows a generalized schematic illustrating commutatorarrangement 160 in a second rotational position 164 after 180 degrees ofrotation. After commutator hub 146 has moved through 180 degrees ofrotation, the terminating anode and cathode ends of electrochemical cell104 may be reversed relative to brushes 156, thus reversing thedirection of the current within external circuit 154, as shown.

In the schematic depictions of FIG. 18 and FIG. 19, external circuit 154preferably comprises a set of field coils 166 used withinelectromagnetic embodiments of field magnets 130 to produce operationalmagnetic fields (see FIG. 3). In addition, external circuit 154comprises current control component 168 preferably adapted to regulatethe magnetic field magnitude by shunting current away from field coils166 (thus, rotational speed, starting, stopping, etc. is readilycontrollable), as shown. In the simplified schematic diagram of FIG. 18and FIG. 19, current control component 168 is (preferably) depicted as asimple variable resistance device. Current control in mostimplementations may preferably comprise additional levels of currentcontrol. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those ofordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as intended use, cost, advancesin technology, etc., other current control arrangements, such as,switches, relays, rectifiers, pulse-width modulation controllers,processor controlled systems, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 20 shows a generalized schematic illustrating the operation of acircumferential commutator arrangement 170 comprising atwo-coil-series-connected radial motor battery 172, according to analternate embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 21 shows ageneralized schematic illustrating commutator arrangement 170 of thetwo-coil-series-connected radial motor battery 172 of FIG. 20 after 180degrees of rotation.

The integrated power arrangements of motor-battery system 100 allow fordevelopment of novel and highly efficient commutation configurations.Preferably, commutator arrangement 170 comprises two commutator bars150, one electrically coupled to an anode termination of the coupledmotor-battery coils 120, the other electrically coupled to a cathodetermination of the series-coupled motor-battery coils 120. Preferably,each of the two commutator bars 150 are individually affixed to anindividual commutator plate 176, with one commutator bar 150 located at0 degrees and the other located at 180 degrees, as shown. One commutatorplate 176 preferably extends from the five-degree position to the180-degree position, as shown. Preferably, the second commutator plate176 preferably extends from the 185-degree position to the 360-degreeposition, as shown. Preferably, each commutator plate 176 iselectrically isolated from the underlying motor-battery coils 120 byinsulator layer 174, as shown.

Preferably, each brush 156 electrically couples a commutator plate 176to external circuit 176 to complete the current path through currentcontrol component 168. Note that electrical current direction isreversed after 180 degrees of rotation.

The preferred regions of the north and south axial field poleinteraction are also shown. The operating magnetic fields may beproduced by permanent magnets or electromagnets powered by externalcircuit 177, as appropriate to the application. Note that the voltageacross the brushes may depend on the connections chosen for theinterconnection of the cells, e.g., in series or in parallel.

FIG. 22 shows a generalized schematic illustrating the operation offour-coil commutator 180 of a four-coil radial motor battery 173.Numerous configurations of electrochemical cells 104 and motor-batterycoil 120 are possible within the scope of the present invention. Oneuseful embodiment preferably positions two of its four motor-batterycoils 120 at 90 degrees and the other at 270 degrees, as shown. Thesecoils, identified herein as coil “A” and coil “B”, preferably interactwith field magnets 130, as shown, and preferably function to provide theextractable motive power. Electrical current generated by coil “A” andcoil “B” is conducted to external controller/field coil circuit 182through commutator plates 181 and corresponding brushes 156 of powercommutator portion 200, as shown.

The remaining two motor-battery coils 120, one at the zero-degreeposition and the other at the 180-degree position, do not interact withthe field coils. These “inactive” coils, identified herein as coil “APrime” and coil “B Prime”, are connected by recharging commutatorportion 202 to external controller/recharging circuit 185, as shown.External controller/recharging circuit 185 preferably functions torecharge the “inactive” motor-battery coils 120 of the motor battery bymeans of a secondary power source, such as, for example, regenerativebraking or by an alternator/generator powered by an external source (seeFIG. 25). Recharging commutator portion 202 preferably comprises a setof commutator plates 183 and brushes 156 functioning to conductelectrical current from external controller/recharging circuit 185 tocoil “A Prime” and coil “B Prime”, as shown.

In operation, each motor-battery coil 120 of four-coil radial motorbattery 173 functions as a force-producing motor for 90 degrees ofrotation after which it enters a period of inactivity during about 90degrees of rotation, as shown. Preferably, during such periods ofinactivity, the motor-battery coil 120 may simply remain inactive forcooling or be recharged, as required (at least embodying herein at leastone alternate non-power-producing function).

FIG. 23 shows a transverse sectional view schematically illustrating atwo-coil radial motor battery 184, to more clearly illustrate preferredmagnetic circuits and electrical commutation within a preferredrepresentative embodiment of the present invention. Preferably, armature188 of motor battery 184 comprises the two motor-battery coils 120,identified herein as coil “A” and coil “B”, as shown. Preferably, coil“A” and coil “B” are electrically coupled in parallel. Preferably, powercommutation in the present preferred embodiment is arranged so that, inthe depicted armature position, the electrical current on the left sideof coil “A” flows radially outward while the electrical current in coil“B” preferably flows radially inward, as denoted by the small arrowindications and adjoining (I) symbols. The field coils 166 of theelectromagnetic field magnets 130 are preferably connected in serieswith coil “A” and coil “B to produce the magnetic pole directionsdenoted by the large arrow indications.

During preferred operation, electrical current in coil “A” and coil “B”interact with the magnetic fields generated by field magnets 130 toprovide a magnetic force extending perpendicularly to both the directionof current flow and magnetic field orientation (generally into the planeof the illustration) at coil “A” and extending perpendicularly(generally out of the plane of the illustration) at coil “B”. This forcebias results in rotation of armature 188. More specifically, armature188 rotates to place coil “A” in the bottom position and coil “B” in thetop position. This preferred rotation results in a reversal of theinitial spatial directions of the radial electrical currents.Preferably, to maintain the initial direction of the forces, thedirection of the magnetic fields must also be reversed. Preferably, suchreversal of fields is accomplished automatically as the lower conductiveregion 167 of the commutator (see FIG. 18), which was initially at abottom position, rotates to contact brush 156 on the top. Similarly, theupper conductive region 167 that was formerly on the top positionrotates to contact brush 156 on the bottom (see again the teachings ofFIG. 18 and FIG. 19). The direction of the electrical current throughfield coils 166 may thus be reversed and armature 188 may continue torotate in the initial direction. This sequence is preferably repeatedwith each half-turn of armature 188.

In four-coil radial motor battery 173, that preferably provides for twocoils to be either inactive or in a state of being recharged from anexternal source, the two “extra coils” (coil “A Prime” and coil “BPrime”) preferably comprise their own commutator and brush sets(recharging commutator portion 202) and function substantially asdescribed for coil “A” and coil “B”. In preferred operations, coil “APrime” and coil “B Prime” are preferably allowed to cool or be rechargedwhile they are out of the magnetic circuit. They may also be used toprovide “on-demand” supplemental power by connecting rechargingcommutator portion 202 to an appropriately configured externalcontroller during that portion of a revolution when they are positionedto interact with the magnetic fields. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as userpreference, intended use, etc., other circuiting arrangements, such asconfiguring such a “demand-based” controller to recharge coil “A” andcoil “B” while they are in the inactive zone, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 24 shows a generalized schematic illustrating circuitingarrangement for the power commutator portion 200 of four-coil commutator180, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Acorresponding recharging commutator portion (see FIG. 25) has beenremoved from the view for clarity. Preferred connections of coil “A” andcoil “B” motor-battery coils 120 to power commutator portion 200, fieldcoils 166, and current control component 168 of externalcontroller/field coil circuit 182 are shown.

FIG. 25 shows generalized schematic illustrating circuiting arrangementsfor the recharging commutator portion 202 of four-coil commutator 180.Preferred connections of the coil “A Prime” and coil “B Prime”motor-battery coils 120 to external controller/recharging circuit 185and secondary power source 206 are shown. Note that externalcontroller/recharging circuit 185 comprises current controller 210functioning to reverse current polarity during each half turn.

External controller/recharging circuit 185 preferably functions torecharge the “inactive” motor-battery coils 120 of the motor battery bysecondary power source 206, as shown. Secondary power source 206preferably comprises a regenerative braking system and/oralternator/generator 208 powered by an external source, as shown. Uponreading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill inthe art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as user preference, intended use, etc., othersecondary power arrangements, such as inductive couplings, fuel cells,secondary batteries, flywheel storage systems, internal combustion-basedgenerators, storage capacitors, Sterling-cycle heat recovery devices,etc., may suffice.

FIG. 26 shows a side view schematically illustrating a preferred coilarrangement, within four-coil radial motor battery 173, according topreferred embodiment of the present invention. Preferred orientations ofcurrent flows in the power and charging cell coils is shown. Note thatmagnetic pole-shoes 134 of field magnets 130 do not interact withcharging coils “A Prime” and “B Prime”.

Note that the direction of the current flow in coil “A” and coil “APrime” is radially outward while the direction of the current flow incoil “B” and coil “B Prime” is radially inward. With this preferredarrangement, the pole orientation of the field coils must be reversedevery 180 degrees. However, in alternate preferred embodiments ofmotor-battery system 100, the direction of all coils may be madeidentical thus producing a “uni-pole” motor. In this alternate preferredembodiment, the direction of the current does not have to be reversedevery 180 degrees. The field may then be provided by permanent magnetsor, alternately, the permanent magnets may be integral to the armaturerotor and the battery coils arranged to provide the field coils. Thefunction of brushes 156 in this preferred alternate arrangement would beto simply couple the coil-generated current to an external motorcontroller. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those ofordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as user preference, intended use,advances in technology, etc., other motor control arrangements, such aseliminating the brushes completely by integrating modern electronics,with remote control capabilities, into the rotor to provide the on andoff switching of the coil current and to provide a modern Pulse WidthModulation (PWM) or other method of speed control and battery chargingcircuitry, etc., may suffice.

Furthermore, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those ofordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as intended use, etc., other coilarrangements, such as the development of alternate embodiments utilizingfour electromagnetic shoes (that do not use permanent magnets), etc.,may suffice. In such an embodiment, all four of the electromagneticfield coils may be energized when full power was being extracted fromsuch a motor. Such an arrangement would place all coil cells under amagnetic field and maximize the torque produced.

In addition, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those ofordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as intended operation, materialsselection, etc., other coil energizing arrangements, such as allowingtwo coils to be left un-energized during operation thus allowing thecoil cells to cool off during a portion of each revolution (to maximizebattery life), allowing a control circuit to sense when the brakes werebeing applied and provide current to all electromagnetic field coils(allowing all four coil cells to be charged via regenerative braking),etc., may suffice. It is further noted that, within the afore-mentionedarrangements, none of the electromagnetic field coils may be energizedduring external charging of such a motor-battery from the electricalpower grid. It is also noted that such options would not be available ifpermanent magnets were used. In such permanent-magnet configurations,the magnetic field could not be controlled electrically and the rotorwould have to be locked mechanically during external recharging from thepower grid.

Moreover, upon reading the teachings of this specification, those ofordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as intended use, etc., othercharging arrangements, such as charging the “A-prime” and “B-prime” cellcoils of an electric vehicle from an onboard gasoline engine to keep thecell coils charged to within a preferred range of depletion to maximizebattery life may suffice. In this case, preferably, the cell coils donot have to extend for 90 degrees each. The 360 degrees available may beapportioned as required or preferred by the vehicle designer (althoughthere must be a minimum of two of cell coils to provide the necessarycommutation). It is further noted that the speed of non-permanent-magnetembodiments may be regulated by controlling either the current throughelectromagnetic field coils of a stator or the current through the coilcells of a rotor.

FIG. 27 shows a transverse sectional view schematically illustrating analternate radial motor battery 220 comprising permanent magnet statorassembly 222, according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. Numerous alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC)embodiments of Motor-battery system 100 are possible, as shown. Apreferred embodiment comprising permanent magnet stators and four-coilrotor 221 is shown in FIG. 27. Alternate radial motor battery 220preferably comprises cell coil “A”, cell coil “B”, permanent magnet 130,shoe and brush holder assembly 224, brushes 156 serving cell coil “A”,cell coil “B, speed controller circuit 226, cell recharging circuit 228,as shown. Preferably, mechanical power is extracted from the system atdrive shaft 230, as shown. Coil “A Prime”, coil “B Prime”, brushes, andassociated charging circuit are preferably located 90 degrees from thedepicted transverse sectional view.

In the depicted armature position, the preferred electrical currentflows within coil “A” and coil “B” are denoted by the small arrowindications and adjoining (I) symbols. The magnetic field orientationswithin permanent magnet stator assembly 222 are denoted by the largearrow indications. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as intended use,cost, etc., other magnetic arrangements within the rotor assembly, suchas wound magnetic field coils, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 28 shows a transverse sectional view schematically illustratingalternate radial motor battery 240 comprising a permanent magnet rotorassembly 242, according to another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. Alternate radial motor battery 240 preferably comprisespermanent magnet rotor assembly 242, stator coil “A”, stator coil “B”,speed controller circuit 226. Preferably, permanent magnet rotorassembly 242 rotates within gap 142 of the positionally fixedelectrochemical cells 104 of stator coil “A” and stator coil “B”, asshown. Preferably, permanent magnet rotor 242 is mechanically coupled todrive shaft 230, as shown. Preferably, mechanical power (torque)generated by the rotation of permanent magnet rotor assembly 242 isextracted from the system at drive shaft 230, as shown. Statorstructures supporting stator coil “A” and stator coil “B are preferablyadapted to contain a plurality of bearings 244 functioning torotationally support drive shaft 230, as shown. The stator structurefurther comprises mounts 246 adapted to assist mounting of alternateradial motor battery 240 to a mounting point of the intendedapplication. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those ofordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as intended use, cost, etc.,other magnetic arrangements within the rotor assembly, such as woundmagnetic field coils, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 29 shows generalized schematic illustrating alternate motor battery250 of motor-battery system 100, preferably adapted to function as aflywheel-type power storage device, according to another alternateembodiment of the present invention.

In alternate motor battery 250, shaft energy is produced by theself-powered rotation of motor-battery flywheel 252, as shown.Preferably, excess kinetic energy not required for immediate propulsionis stored in the rotating mass of motor-battery flywheel 252.Preferably, this stored energy is extracted when needed for propulsionor other power requirements, as shown. Preferably, shaft 254 comprisesvariable coupler 256 functioning to couple and decouple shaft 254 frommotor-battery flywheel 252 and load 260, as shown. Controller 258preferably controls both the operation (rotational speed) ofmotor-battery coil 252 and operational timing of variable coupler 256,as shown. Preferably, flywheel 252 is kinetically self-charged but canalso be charged by regeneration from an external source, such as vehicleduring braking.

Alternate motor battery 250 is especially well suited as a power sourcefor hybrid-electric vehicles. In this preferred application, alternatemotor battery 250 is self-accelerated to a very high rotational speed.Once accelerated, alternate motor battery 250 is preferably adapted tomaintain rotational speed for extended periods using low-frictionarrangements, preferably including magnetically levitated bearingsand/or by encapsulating motor-battery flywheel 252 within anair-evacuated housing. Preferably, alternate motor battery 250 ismechanically connected to the drive wheels of the vehicle and power isextracted to propel the vehicle.

FIG. 30 shows a generalized schematic, illustrating alternate motorbattery 300, according to another preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. Preferably, alternate motor battery 300 comprises armature302 rotatably supported within at least one magnetic field generated bystator assembly 310, as shown. Armature 302 preferably comprisesmagnetically conductive core 308 supporting dual windings 304, as shown.Preferably, dual windings 304 comprise a series of parallel conductivewindings preferably separated by arrangements of electrolytic andisolative layers. More specifically, dual windings 304 preferablycomprise anode winding 312, cathode winding 314, electrolyte layer 316,and isolative layer 318, as shown. Preferably, electrolyte layer 316 isdisposed in operative relation between anode winding 312 and cathodewinding 314, as shown. Preferably, isolative layer 318 is disposedbetween anode winding 312 and cathode winding 314 to prevent currentshorting across the conductors, as shown. This preferred arrangementforms at least one electrochemical cell 322. Preferably, armature 302 isthus structured and arranged to form at least onemagnetic-field-producing battery-coil 306, preferably capable ofproducing at least one salient magnetic pole, and furthermore preferablycapable of storing and delivering electrical current usable to generatethe operating magnetic field of the at least one salient magnetic pole.Preferably, the field current is generated substantially entirely withinthe windings. The resulting flow of current withinmagnetic-field-producing battery-coil 306 is preferably controlledthrough commutation, preferably by commutator arrangement 320, as shown.Preferred commutation within alternate motor battery 300 preferablyfollows the general strategies described within the prior embodiments.

FIG. 31A shows a perspective view of magnetic-field-producingbattery-coil 330 for a rotary electric device comprising at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 preferably locatedaround a central core, preferably magnetically conductive core 334, asshown. FIG. 31B shows a sectional view through the section 31B-31B ofFIG. 31A. Preferably, magnetic-field-producing battery-coil 330 (atleast embodying herein a wound magnetic field coil) is useful in theconstruction of rotary electric devices (such as, electric motors,electric generators, electric alternators, and the like). Upon readingthe teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill in the artwill now understand that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as intended use, cost, etc., other core arrangements, suchas air cores, etc., may suffice.

Unlike magnetic-field-producing battery-coil 306,magnetic-field-producing battery-coil 330 preferably comprises fieldwindings composed of one or more battery cells, most preferably,electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332, as shown.Preferably, each electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 issupplied as a substantially flexible ribbon having a longitudinal lengthsubstantially greater that its maximum width, as shown (it is noted thatthe depicted width of electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332is not to scale and has been exaggerated to aide in illustration). Uponreading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill inthe art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as production methodologies, advances intechnology, production cost, etc., other ribbon width arrangements, suchas producing ribbons having widths approaching those of a conventionalcopper winding, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 comprisessufficient flexibility to allow the above-described winding to occur.FIG. 38 shows a diagram, generally illustrating the preferred steps usedin forming magnetic-field-producing battery-coil 330.

As in the prior electrochemical cell embodiments,electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 is structured andarranged to produce electrical current derived from at least oneelectrochemical process. Such electrical current is preferably used togenerate at least one magnetic field within magnetic-field-producingbattery-coil 330.

Thin film solid-state batteries are preferably constructed by depositingthe components of the battery as thin films (less than 5 μm) on at leastone supportive substrate. A preferred embodiment ofelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 preferably comprisesat least one flexible substrate 338 (at least embodying herein at leastone supportive substrate) supporting at least one cathode 342 inoperative relation with at least one cathode current collector 340, atleast one anode 346 in operative relation with at least one anodecurrent collector 348, and at least one electrolyte 344 structured andarranged to support the above-described electrochemical process.Preferably, electrolyte 344 is disposed in operative relation with bothanode 346 and cathode 342, as shown in FIG. 31B. At least one flexiblepolymer foil is preferably used as flexible substrate 338. Preferably, alow temperature deposition process is used to constructelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332, as further describedbelow. Such a preferred low temperature deposition process is used, forexample, in commercial thin-film battery cells made by Excellatron SolidState LLC. of Atlanta, Ga. (URL: www.excellatron.com). Most currentthin-film battery technologies utilize a lithium-based chemistry. Uponreading the teachings of this specification, those of ordinary skill inthe art will now understand that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as design preference, intended use, advances intechnology, etc., other thin-film battery chemistries, such as carbonzinc, zinc manganese dioxide, biomaterials, nanomaterials, futuretechnologies, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, cathode current collector 340 and anode current collector348 are deposited by sputtering of an appropriate metal in an argon (Ar)atmosphere (at a thickness of approximately 0.3 μm). Preferably, cathodefilms of LiC_(o)O₂ or LiMn₂O₄ are deposited by radio frequency magnetronsputtering of sintered targets of the respective compounds in Ar+O₂,while films of V₂O₅ are deposited by reactive sputtering of V in Ar+O₂.Preferably, a sputtered LiPON electrolyte film covers cathode 342 and aportion of flexible substrate 338 up to anode current collector 348, inorder to isolate substrate 338 from anode 346. Preferably, a protectivelayer 337 may be applied to protect the assembly.

Preferably, electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 comprisesat least one lithium-based chemistry. For a thin-film lithium batterycell, a thin layer of lithium metal is thermally evaporated on LiPON asanode 346. For a thin-film lithium-ion battery, a layer of Sn₃N₄(deposited by sputtering of Sn target in N₂ environment) is used asanode 346. It is noted that the configuration and operation of suchelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cells are described in greaterdetail in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,835,493 to Zhang et al.,incorporated herein by reference for further examples of implementationengineering. Upon reading the teachings of this specification, those ofordinary skill in the art will now understand that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as intended use, cost, etc.,other creation/energy storage arrangements, such as the use of windingscomprising battery plates (wet or dry), super capacitors, etc., maysuffice.

Conventional rechargeable batteries have significant capacity fade attemperatures higher than 60° Centigrade (C.). Electrically-conductivethin-film battery cell 332, as constructed in the above descriptions,preferably comprises comparatively high temperature stability. Thin-filmbattery cells of the above-described type may operate at temperatures upto about 150° C. This preferred thermal characteristic makeselectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 especially wellsuited for use in high-powered rotary electric devices, such as, forexample, electric vehicle drive motors, as further described in FIG. 32.

FIG. 32 shows a perspective view illustrating alternate radial motorbattery 350 according to a preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 33 shows a front view illustrating alternate radialmotor battery 350 of FIG. 32. FIG. 34 shows a side view illustratingalternate radial motor battery 350. FIG. 35 shows a perspective viewincluding a partial cutaway through the section 35-35 of FIG. 33. FIG.36 shows a sectional view through the section 36-36 of FIG. 33. FIG. 37shows an exploded perspective view illustrating preferred components ofalternate radial motor battery 350. Preferably, alternate radial motorbattery 350 is constructed using field coils generally matching thepreferred structures and arrangements of magnetic-field-producingbattery-coil 330 (see again FIG. 31A). It is further noted that bearingsand other support structures have been omitted from the illustration forclarity.

Preferably, alternate radial motor battery 350 comprises rotor assembly354 rotatably supported within stator assembly 352, as shown.Preferably, rotor assembly 354 and stator assembly 352 are separated byradial air gap 356, as shown. Preferably, stator assembly 352 comprisesat least one, preferably a plurality of radially-arranged statormagnetic-field-sources 358, as shown. Preferably, each stator magneticfield sources 358 structured and arranged to produce at least onesalient magnetic pole oriented toward rotor assembly 354 and extendingthrough radial air gap 356, as shown.

Preferably, each stator magnetic-field-source 358 is produced by atleast one wound magnetic field coil 362, as shown. Preferably, eachmagnetic field coil 362 comprises a construction substantially similarto magnetic-field-producing battery-coil 330, as previously noted above.More specifically, magnetic field coil 362 comprises at least onemagnetically conductive core 364 and at least one field winding 366wound around magnetically conductive core 364, as shown. Preferably,magnetically conductive core 364 comprises soft iron or an iron alloy.Each magnetically conductive core 364 may preferably comprise magneticpole-shoes 365 functioning to direct the magnetic field across anextended region of interaction. Outer support structures 367 preferablyfunction to maintain positioning of the stator elements, as shown.

Field windings 366 preferably comprise the above-describedelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cells 332, each one preferablyadapted to produce electrical current derived from at least oneelectrochemical process. Preferably, electrical current derived fromelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cells 332 is used to energizemagnetic field coil 362 to produce a magnetic field forming the magneticpoles.

Preferably, rotor assembly 354 comprises at least one, preferably aplurality of rotor magnetic-field-sources 360, each one preferablystructured and arranged to produce at least one salient magnetic poleoriented to face stator assembly 352 through radial air gap 356.Preferably, each rotor magnetic-field-source 360 comprises a permanentmagnet 368 adapted to generate a salient magnetic pole within rotorassembly 354. Rotor assembly 354 preferably comprises cylindrical core361, as shown. The interior of cylindrical core 361 is partially hollowand may preferably be used to house electronic circuits, transmissiongears, etc., as required.

Preferably, the permanent magnets 368 are recessed into the surface ofthe outside circumference of rotor assembly 354, as shown. It ispreferred that stator assembly 352 comprise 16 magnetic field coil 362to match the 16 magnets permanent magnets 368 of rotor assembly 354.Rare-earth permanent magnets are preferred for use as permanent magnets368 due to their inherent high magnetic fields and low losses. Thispreferred characteristic assists in the generation of relativelyconstant torque for a given current flow within magnetic field coil 362.This preferred characteristic is very useful for many industrialapplications, and is especially useful in land vehicle drive systems.Rare earth permanent magnets suitable for use as permanent magnets 368include those of the NdFe group and alternately preferably includepermanent Samarium Cobalt magnets (SmCo). Upon reading the teachings ofthis specification, those of ordinary skill in the art will nowunderstand that, under appropriate circumstances, considering suchissues as intended use, cost, etc., other magnetic arrangements withinthe rotor assembly, such as ceramic magnets, ferrite magnets, woundmagnetic field coils, etc., may suffice.

Preferably, electromotive interaction between two or more respectivesalient magnetic poles of rotor assembly 354 and stator assembly 352results in rotational movement that is preferably converted into motivepower output at shaft 370. More specifically, each salient magnetic poleof rotor assembly 354 comprises at least one relational arrangement toeach salient magnetic pole of stator assembly 352. In such a preferredphysical arrangement, rotation of rotor assembly 354 is enabled by anarmature reaction between rotor assembly 354 and stator assembly 352 (incombination with a means for dynamically controlling the flow ofelectrical current within magnetic field coils 362).

In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the hollowfrustoconical void 371 occurring on each side of stator assembly 352 isfilled with an additional electrochemical cell 372, as shown. Thispreferably provides additional energy storage capacity within alternateradial motor battery 350. In addition, electrochemical cell 372 may beutilized as a secondary means for field generation.

Alternate radial motor battery 350 is preferably adaptable to a range ofrotary electric device applications. It is anticipated that alternateradial motor battery 350 may operate over a speed range of about 10to 1. This preferably eliminates the need for a transmission in mostvehicle applications (other than the most demandinglow-speed/high-torque applications). It is further noted that, alternateradial motor battery 350 may preferably comprise one large motor, to beinstalled within a vehicle in the manner of a conventional engine, oralternately preferably, may comprise a set of smaller motors that couldbe mounted within each wheel. The preferred direct drive (notransmission) capability of alternate radial motor battery 350 may makesuch “distributed” arrangements feasible, especially if the controlswere built into the hollow portion of rotor assembly 354. For example, apreferred embodiment may preferably comprise a road-going tire mountedto the outside of the above-described motor battery. In this way, theweight of the wheel and rim are eliminated in vehicles that comprise amotor battery at each wheel. Upon reading the teachings of thisspecification, those of ordinary skill in the art will now understandthat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues asintended use, marketing, etc., other motor-battery arrangements, such asa wheel-mounted motor-battery configuration offered as a conversion kitto adapt conventional vehicles to all-electric or hybrid-electric power,utilizing permanent magnets within the stator, etc., may suffice.Computerized development tools may preferably be utilized to assist inthe design of specific motor-battery applications. For example, RMxprtsoftware by Ansoft Corporation of Pittsburgh, Pa. may be used to assistthe design, analysis, and simulation of the preferred embodiments ofmotor-battery system 100 described herein.

Alternate radial motor battery 350 is well suited to operation underhigh-performance electronic controllers used in electric vehicleapplications. Such preferred controllers achieve improved performance bydelivering a series of high current pulses to the field coils. Thepreferred thin-film cells of alternate radial motor battery 350 are wellsuited to handle these pulses. Such preferred high-performancecontrollers include automotive electronic motor controllers produced by,for example, UQM Technologies, Inc. of Frederick, Colo.

FIG. 38 shows a diagram, illustrating preferred method 380 of formingmagnetic-field-producing battery-coil 330 of FIG. 31, according to apreferred method of motor-battery system 100. It is noted that theinitial preferred step of method 380 preferably presupposes that atleast one new or existing magnetically conductive core 334 has beenprovided as a starting point.

Preferably, at least one electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell332 is provided as indicated in preferred step 382. It is preferred thatthis electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell generally followsthe preferred structures and arrangements of electrically-conductivethin-film battery cell 332 of FIG. 31A and FIG. 31B. Next, as indicatedin preferred step 384, electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell332 is wound around magnetically conductive core 334 to formmagnetic-field-producing battery-coil 330 (as shown in FIG. 31A). In asubsequent preferred step of method 380, magnetic-field-producingbattery-coil 330 is incorporated into at least one electromotive devicestructured and arranged to produce at least one useable mechanicalforce, as indicated in preferred step 386. Such an electromotive devicemay preferably comprise alternate radial motor battery 350.

FIG. 39 shows a diagram, illustrating preferred method 390 of modifyingconventional electric motor 392 to form a preferred motor-batteryembodiment 394, according to a preferred method and embodiments ofmotor-battery system 100. The preferred steps of method 390 comprise thedisassembly of conventional electric motor 392 followed by thereplacement of the conventional copper windings withelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cells 332 of the same generaldimensions. This preferred modification produces a combined electricmotor-battery 398 containing magnetic-field coil-windings comprising theabove-described electrically-conductive thin-film battery cells 332. Itis noted that the above-described modification is essentially“transparent” to the control system of conventional electric motor 392.Preferably, conventional electric motor 392 may comprise an “off theshelf” unit. Preferably, electrically-conductive thin-film battery cells332 in the configuration of a continuous ribbon may be producedspecifically for the rotary electric device to be modified under method390.

Thus, there is described herein, method 390 related to convertingconventional electric motor 392 (a conventional rotary electric device)to at least one combined electric motor-battery 398. First,substantially all the copper (or equivalent) windings 401 are removedfrom of copper-wound stator coils 395 leaving bare themagnetically-conductive cores 397, as indicated in preferred step 399.Next, as indicated in preferred step 403, a sufficiently long ribbon ofelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 is provided. Next,the ribbon of electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 iswound around the magnetically-conductive cores 397 to form at least onemotor-battery embodiment 394, as indicated in preferred step 406. It isagain noted that electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell 332 isstructured and arranged to produce electrical current derived from atleast one electrochemical process; and such electrical current is usableto generate at least one magnetic field within the resultingmagnetic-field-producing battery-coils of motor-battery embodiment 394.

FIG. 40 shows a perspective view, in partial section, schematicallyillustrating preferred arrangements of an alternate motor-batteryassembly 400, comprising a preferred laminated plate construction 402,according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG.41 shows a diagrammatic perspective view, schematically illustrating astacked arrangement of four current-producing cells 412 deposited onfour motor-battery laminations 409, isolated from the overall assemblyfor illustrative purposes.

The preferred laminated plate construction 402 of alternatemotor-battery assembly 400 preferably comprises a plurality ofdimensionally thin plate-like substrates, each one supporting a thinelectrolytic layer. The preferred laminated plate construction 402 ofalternate motor-battery assembly 400 preferably comprises at least onemagnetically-conductive substrate 404 (see FIG. 42) to provide amagnetically-conductive support for electrochemical-cell layers 407 (atleast embodying herein an electrochemical energy source structured andarranged to produce at least one electrical potential from at least oneelectrochemical process). Magnetically-conductive substrate 404preferably comprises at least one material having a low magneticreluctance. Magnetically-conductive substrate 404 most preferablycomprises at least one substantially ferrous material, most preferably athin steel foil. Upon reading this specification, those with ordinaryskill in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as cost, advances in technology,intended use, etc., other material arrangements such as, for example,using ceramic magnetic materials, metallic alloys forming permanentmagnets, magnetic resins/plastics, etc., may suffice.

To facilitate the integration of alternate motor-battery assembly 400 ina wide range of rotary-shaft and similar apparatus, the preferredphysical geometry of magnetically-conductive substrate 404 is that of acircular disk, as shown. Upon reading this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as cost, user preference, etc.,other geometric arrangements such as, for example, non-circular plates,rectilinear plates for linear applications (such as, rail guns), thickerplate arrangements, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 42 shows a schematic diagram illustrating the primary preferredsteps in the formation of alternate motor-battery assembly 400 of FIG.40. Reference is now made to the illustration of FIG. 42, with continuedreference to prior FIG. 40 and FIG. 41. A preferred method ofconstructing alternate motor-battery assembly 400 begins with theformation of the above-described magnetically-conductive substrate 404,preferably comprising an annular disk 408, preferably formed with acentral aperture 410, as shown. In preferred embodiments of the system,each annular disk 408 comprises a flat steel foil having a thickness ofabout 0.002 inch. In a preferred arrangement, the ferrous material ofmagnetically-conductive substrate 404 comprises at least oneelectrically-isolative surface coating, preferably comprising at leastone ferrous oxide compound. Since the disks are made from a ferrousmaterial, they can be optionally magnetized to assist the magnetic fieldsource, in alternate preferred embodiments of the device.

In a subsequent preferred step, electrochemical-cell layers 407 arepreferably deposited on the surface of magnetically-conductive substrate404, preferably resulting in the formation of a single motor-batterylamination 409, as shown. The electrochemical-cell layers 407 arepreferably arranged to comprise a plurality of discretecurrent-producing cells 412, as shown. Each discrete current-producingcell 412 of the plurality preferably functions to produce at least oneelectrical potential from at least one electrochemical process. Suchelectrical potential is preferably used to produce, within thecurrent-producing cell 412, a flow of electrical current generating anelectromotive force in the presence of a magnetic field.

Each motor-battery lamination 409 preferably comprises a substantiallyradial arrangement 414 of current-producing cells 412, as shown. Suchradial arrangement 414 preferably comprises a substantially uniformarray of “pie-shaped” current-producing cells 412 organized about acentral point of radial symmetry 416, preferably coincidental with thecenter point 418 of annular disk 408, as shown. For illustrativepurposes, a preferred embodiment of disk 408 comprises aradially-symmetric arrangement of twelve discrete current-producingcells 412, each comprising a shape generally resembling a hollow sectorof a circle, as shown. It is noted that other preferred embodiments ofalternate motor-battery assembly 400 may comprise a greater or smallernumber of current-producing cells 412, depending on the requiredcapacity of the motor-battery device. As thin film battery technologyand manufacturing reliability improve, larger cell areas producing fewercells per disk may preferably be used. This may preferably reducefurther manufacturing costs.

The above-described disk-preparation process is preferably repeateduntil a selected number of motor-battery laminations 409 are produced.The motor-battery laminations 409 are next preferably assembled in astacked organization 420, as shown. FIG. 41 shows a partial diagrammaticperspective view, isolated from the overall assembly for illustrativepurposes, schematically illustrating the preferred stacking of fourmotor-battery laminations 409. In the illustration of FIG. 41 themagnetically-conductive annular disks 408, as indicated by thedashed-line depiction, has been omitted from the view to betterillustrate the preferred stacked arrangement of individualcurrent-producing cells 412. The preferred stacked organization 420 ispreferably aligned coaxially in an arrangement substantiallyperpendicular to the planar support surface 422 of annular disk 408, asshown. As the preferred system arrangements are inherently modular, anypreferred number of motor-battery laminations 409 can be combined, in amanner akin to washers on a bolt, to produce preferred alternatemotor-battery assemblies 400 as large as required (within theconstraints established by the strength of the magnetic-field source,which establishes a magnetic circuit passing through stackedorganization 420).

Individual electrical leads 424 are preferably affixed to eachcurrent-producing cell 412, preferably allowing the assembled alternatemotor-battery assembly 400 to be operably coupled to an externalcontrolling device adapted to control current flow within the cells. Theprincipal construction of the alternate motor-battery assembly 400 ispreferably completed by encapsulating the stack of motor-batterylamination 409 within a steel foil enclosure 426, as shown. Foilenclosure 426 is preferably sealed by laser-welding to provide amoisture-protective outer barrier.

Each current-producing cell 412 preferably comprises threeelectrochemical-cell layers 407, as shown. These preferably comprise atleast one anode layer 428 and at least one cathode layer 430 preferablyplaced in interactive relation with at least one electrolytic layer 432supporting the required electrochemical process. Anode layer 428,cathode layer 430, and electrolytic layer 432 are preferably formed byat least one thin-film deposition process. The thin-film battery layerspreferably comprise total thickness of about 0.001 inches per disk. Amask is used to define which regions of the substrate will receive thethin-film layers.

Current-producing cells 412 preferably utilize a lithium-basedchemistry. Preferred electrolyte chemistries support the production ofsecondary-type cells. Upon reading the teachings of this specification,those of ordinary skill in the art will now understand that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as design preference,intended use, advances in technology, etc., other thin-film batterychemistries, such as carbon zinc, zinc manganese dioxide, biomaterials,nanomaterials, future technologies, etc., may suffice.

In the preferred embodiments of alternate motor-battery assembly 400,four individual leads 424 are preferably affixed to eachcurrent-producing cell 412, preferably permitting the flow of current tobe reversed through the radial length of the cell. Upon reading thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciatethat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost,preference, etc., other electrical lead arrangements such as, forexample, using two leads in a homopolar motor configuration (In such ahomopolar application, the current always flows in the same direction),may suffice. In all other applications, the current along the length ofeach current-producing cell 412 must have the preferred capability ofbeing reversed in direction (even thought the direction of the electronsthrough the electrolyte is essentially always the same direction).

Preferably, as depicted in the preferred embodiment of FIG. 41, lead424A electrically couples the outer periphery of one or more anodelayers 428 and lead 424B electrically couples the outer periphery of oneor more cathode layers 430. Preferably, lead 424C electrically couplesthe inner periphery of one or more anode layers 428 and lead 424Delectrically couples the inner periphery of one or more cathode layers430. Respective cell layers may preferably be coupled in parallel, asshown, with consideration preferably given to the maximumcurrent-carrying capacity of the thin-film layers.

FIG. 43 shows a diagrammatic sectional view, schematically illustratingan alternate radial motor battery 432, demonstrating the preferred useof a set of alternate motor-battery assemblies 400 to enable arotary-power device. Alternate radial motor battery 432 preferablycomprises at least one magnetic field source 106, preferably originatingwithin a magnetic rotor assembly, most preferably a multi-polepermanent-magnet rotor assembly 442, as shown. Alternately preferably,magnetic field source 106 may preferably comprise an electromagneticfield source. A physical positioner 434 preferably supports the rotorassembly 442 between a fixed stator comprising a pair of ring-shapedalternate motor-battery assemblies 400, as shown.

The permanent magnets of rotor assembly 442 are preferably arranged toproduce a plurality of magnetic circuits having lines of flux passingthrough a respective stack of current-producing cells 412, as shown.More specifically, the plurality of magnetic circuits comprise magneticflux lines 436 preferably aligned in a first direction passing through arespective stack of current-producing cells 412, such first directionsubstantially perpendicular to the planar surfaces of laminated annulardisks 408. Thus, the magnetic fields produced by permanent-magnet rotorassembly 442 preferably form magnetic circuits in which the electrodelayers (anode layer 428 and cathode layer 430) of current-producingcells 412 directly interact.

Alternate radial motor battery 432 preferably comprises at least onecontrol circuit 438 preferably adapted to control, among other physicaloperations, the direction of electrical current flow withincurrent-producing cells 412. The preferred radial circuiting ofcurrent-producing cells 412 results in a flow of electrical current,within anode layer 428 and cathode layer 430, preferably moving betweenthe central and outer leads. Physical positioner 434 is preferablystructured and arranged to align the arrangement of current-producingcells 412 to generate a current flow direction 440 preferably orientedgenerally perpendicular to magnetic flux lines 436, as shown.Interaction between the electric current and magnetic flux lines 436produces an electromotive force, acting between the current-producingcells 412 and the magnetic poles of the rotor, in a third directionoriented generally perpendicular to the rotational axis 444 of rotorassembly 442 (at least embodying herein wherein the rotational axiscomprises an orientation non-parallel with such third direction).

Rotor assembly 442 is preferably supported by bearings 446 to providefree rotation of the assembly relative to the alternate motor-batteryassemblies 400 of the stator (at least embodying herein at least onemotion enabler structured and arranged to enable relative motion betweensuch at least one electrochemical energy source and such at least onemagnetic field source; wherein such at least one motion enablercomprises at least one rotator structured and arranged to allow rotationabout at least one rotational axis wherein such at least one interactionforce produces such relative motion). At least one useable mechanicalforce is preferably extractable from such relative motion induced bysuch electromotive force.

Each lead is preferably coupled to external control circuit 438 adaptedto control current flow within the motor-battery assembly (see also FIG.43). Control circuit 438 is preferably structured and arranged tocontrol the level of the electromotive interaction force. The preferredstructures and arrangements of alternate motor-battery assembly 400enable the use of either alternating current (AC) or direct current (DC)based control circuits 438. The preferred structures and arrangements ofalternate motor-battery assembly 400 also enable the use various numberof phases and poles, preferably including three-phase two-pole ACdesign. Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill inthe art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as cost, user preference, etc., other designarrangements such as, for example, motor-battery units ranging from ahomopolar design to multi-phase AC units, etc., may suffice.

In a preferred control arrangement, alternate radial motor battery 432is preferably configured as a two-pole three-phase AC unit, preferablyoperated using at least one pulse-width-modulation control strategy. Inthis preferred AC arrangement, control circuit 438 preferably functionsto convert (invert) the DC voltage from the alternate motor-batteryassemblies 400 to three-phase AC voltage and adjust AC voltage amplitudeand frequency based on current demand, speed, and torque. In addition,control circuit 438 preferably comprises at least one recharging circuit446, as shown, preferably functioning to recharge inactivecurrent-producing cells 412 by means of a secondary power source, suchas, for example, regenerative vehicle braking or by analternator/generator powered by an external source. Three-phase ACvoltage generated by the braking is preferably converted by rechargingcircuit 446 back to DC prior to recharging the inactivecurrent-producing cells 412. Control circuit 438 may preferably collectsensor data from alternate radial motor battery 432 (for example, shaftspeed, lamination temperatures, back EMF to identify rotation direction,etc.), which is used by control circuit 438 to properly implement thepulse-width-modulation control.

It is noted that the preferred unidirectional orientation of currentflow and magnetic circuiting allow operation of the preferredembodiments as either AC or DC units, without the need for commutation.In a preferred embodiment of the system, each of the 12 cells of themotor-battery laminations 409 are preferably configured to communicateindividually with control circuit 438. This means that one or more cellsmay be allocated by the controller for the provision of energy, tooperate accessories, to be recharged, etc. Furthermore, preferredarrangements control circuit 438 may preferably include thecontemporaneously enabling of current flow in all current-producingcells 412 to provide a substantially instantaneous full torque output ondemand.

Control circuit 438 preferably comprises at least one current reversingcapability to controllably reverse the direction of current flow withinthe current-producing cells 412. The reversing capability is preferablyenabled by the preferred four-lead connection arrangements at thecurrent-producing cells 412. To reverse the rotation of the motor, thecontroller simply reverses the direction of current flow through theleads of alternate motor-battery assembly 400. FIG. 11 through FIG. 17provides additional information related to preferred means for thecontrol of current flow within the cells.

Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as cost, intended use, etc., other arrangements such as, forexample, a homopolar configuration of the laminated motor-batteryapparatus wherein the steel annular disks of the motor-batteryassemblies are permanently magnetized as a Halbach array, etc. maysuffice. Those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate thatthis would preferably direct all of the magnetic field of the rotor'spermanent magnets to one side of the magnets, (i.e., the side facing theair gap adjacent the magnetized annular disks of the stator). Those withordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that this wouldincrease the strength of the magnetic field interacting with the currentflowing through the annular disks. Such a configuration would produce amotor-battery embodiment having a surprising power density. Those withordinary skill in the art will further appreciate that such homopolarembodiments could be used in both AC and DC applications and could useelectromagnets or permanent magnets (including Halbrach arrays) tocreate either the stator or rotor fields for use with all usualcommutation schemes such as brushes and electronic sensing/switchingmeans, and with various control schemes such as pulse width modulation,etc., and with various combinations of phases and poles as appropriatefor the application.

In adapting alternate radial motor battery 432 to a specificapplication, such as the operation of a vehicle, it is typically thekilowatt hour (KWH) requirements of the application that drives thevolume and weight of the overall alternate radial motor battery 432. Inadapting alternate radial motor battery 432 to a vehicle application,the size and weight of the vehicle is preferably identified along withthe intended range of travel between charges. This establishes aspecification for the KWH requirements. In most cases, the capacity ofelectrochemical cells is a principal design factor. The electromotivecapacity of the resulting motor-battery system is generally larger thanrequired. The Applicant has found that this feature of the system can beused to reduce the operating current within electrode laminations tolower temperatures within the motor-battery assembly (typically lessthan about 100 degrees C.). This preferred feature permits the use of awide range of battery chemistries and further increases the durabilityof the overall system.

Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as cost, user preference, etc., other motor-batteryarrangements such as, for example, deploying multi-megawattmotor-battery systems for Navy ships (missile destroyers), submarines,military and civilian aircraft, etc., may suffice.

FIG. 44 shows a diagrammatic sectional view, schematically illustratinga preferred vehicle wheel 450, incorporating a motor-battery unit 452,according to another preferred embodiment of the present invention. FIG.45 shows a diagrammatic sectional view, through the section 45-45 ofFIG. 44, illustrating preferred mechanical arrangements of vehicle wheel450 of FIG. 44. Vehicle wheel 450 preferably comprises at least onetorque-generating motor-battery unit 452 integrated substantially withinthe vehicle-mountable wheel assembly, as shown. Motor-battery unit 452is preferably structured and arranged to act directly on the wheels toaccelerate the vehicle.

Vehicle wheel 450 preferably comprises an outer tire 454 mountedcircumferentially to a circular wheel rim 456, the wheel rim 456preferably containing at least one motor-battery unit 452, as shown.Motor-battery unit 452 preferably comprises one of the above-describedembodiments of motor-battery system 100. More preferably, motor-batteryunit 452 comprises an embodiment substantially similar to alternateradial motor battery 432.

Motor-battery unit 452 is preferably configured to comprise a fixed acentral stator 458 surrounded by an outer rotor 464, as shown. Centralstator 458 preferably comprises magnetic field source 106, as shown,with outer rotor 464 preferably comprising a motor-battery structure. Ina preferred embodiment of the vehicle-wheel system, magnetic fieldsource 106 comprises an array of high-gauss permanent magnets, withouter rotor 464 comprising a set of alternate motor-battery assemblies400. It is further noted that, in alternate preferred embodiments of thevehicle wheel, the arrangement may be inverted wherein the motor-batterycomponent comprise the stator and the magnetic field source the outerrotor. Such “outrunner” designs are capable of producing high levels oftorque and can be tailored to the intended application by adapting thenumber of laminations.

Central stator 458 is preferably coupled to a least one vehicle mount462 preferably adapted to allow the mounting of vehicle wheel 450 on avehicle (see vehicle 460 of FIG. 46). Depending on the designarrangements of vehicle 460, central stator 458 may be linked withvehicle mount 462 through one or more intervening components. Forexample, preferred embodiments of vehicle wheel 450 may compriseadditional integrated suspension components, shock absorbers, steeringapparatus, braking devices, etc.

Outer rotor 464 of motor-battery unit 452 is preferably situated withincentral stator 458 in a substantially coaxial orientation with respectto their radial centers, as shown. A minimum air gap distance ispreferably maintained between outer rotor 464 and central stator 458 topermit free rotation of outer rotor 464 about central stator 458 whilemaximizing sufficient integrity within the magnetic circuit. For astandard passenger vehicle, motor-battery unit 452 preferably comprisesan outer diameter D of about 40.5 centimeters (16 inches) and athickness T of about 10 centimeters (four inches). Using an averagemid-size passenger vehicle, applicant has calculated that each vehiclewheel 450 may provide an operational range of about 80 kilometers (50miles). It is noted that such an operational range is dependent onvariables that include weight of vehicle, service demand, ambienttemperature, frequency of regenerative braking, etc.

Outer rotor 464 is firmly joined with wheel rim 456 to enable thetransmission of torque between motor-battery unit 452, wheel rim 456,and outer tire 454. Motor-battery unit 452 is preferably operablycoupled with an external controller/charger 466, preferably locatedwithin vehicle 460, as shown. Controller/charger 466 preferablyfunctions to control the current within motor-battery unit 452, supplyelectrical power for recharging, and monitor the operational status(charge capacity, hours of operation, cell temperature, etc.) of vehiclewheel 450. A sensor 468 is preferably incorporated within each vehiclewheel 450 to monitor and report the state of charge in each wheel to theonboard controller/charger 466 of vehicle 460. Upon reading thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciatethat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost,design preference, etc., other controller arrangements such as, forexample, embedding control circuits within the vehicle wheel, etc., maysuffice.

Vehicle wheel 450 is preferably designed to be quickly mountable anddemountable with respect to the vehicle. Vehicle wheel 450 is preferablydesigned to be mountable and demountable using one or more automatedmeans, as further described in FIG. 46,

FIG. 46 shows a diagrammatic perspective view; schematicallyillustrating a preferred method related to the use of vehicle wheel 450of FIG. 44, according to preferred methods and embodiments of thepresent invention. FIG. 46 illustrates a representative vehicle 460preferably configured to receive one or more vehicle wheels 450, asshown. In reference to the illustration of FIG. 46, it is helpful toconsider each of the vehicle wheels 450 as a storage device containing areserve of electrical “fuel”. As noted above, each vehicle wheel 450comprises a known range capacity 500 (for example, about 80 kilometers)based on the electrical storage capacity of the integrated motor-batteryunit 452. The sensor 468 incorporated within each vehicle wheel 450monitors and reports the state of charge in each wheel to the onboardcontroller/charger 466 of vehicle 460. Preferably, after the known rangecapacity 500 has been reached (and the charge of the operating wheelnears depletion), controller/charger 466 automatically switches thedrive operation from the electrically-depleted wheel to anelectrically-charged wheel. This process is preferably repeated untilall the remaining wheels are depleted. The user then locates arecharging station 502 capable of switching out one or more of theelectrically-depleted wheels. The number of vehicle wheels 450 replacedpreferably corresponds to the distance from the next recharging stationor destination of the user. To reduce vehicle weight during operation, aminimum number of vehicle wheels 450 are installed preferablycorresponding to the user's required travel range; the remaining wheelswould preferably comprise a conventional (non-motorized) design.

As most users drive less than 65 kilometers per day, and have thecapacity to recharge the motor-battery unit at home overnight, it isanticipated vehicle 460 will typically operate with one or twomotor-battery equipped vehicle wheels 450. When a user has the need totravel an extended distance, the user simply locates a rechargingstation 502 to add an appropriate number of additional motor-batteryequipped vehicle wheels 450 to vehicle 460. Upon reading thisspecification, those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciatethat, under appropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost,user preference, etc., other vehicle arrangements such as, for example,utilizing global positioning systems (GPS) to identify the location ofnearby stations, utilizing onboard or external processors to calculaterange/wheel capacity, utilizing onboard or external processors toestablish travel routes based on availability of station infrastructure,etc., may suffice.

FIG. 46 diagrammatically depicts a preferred transportationinfrastructure system 510 for servicing vehicles 460 utilizingmotor-battery equipped vehicle wheels 450. Transportation infrastructuresystem 510 preferably comprises a plurality of recharging stations 502preferably spaced along at least one travel route 503 appropriate forvehicular travel use. Transportation infrastructure system 510 ispreferably adapted to offers drivers a level of convenience similar toconventional petroleum-based service stations. Transportationinfrastructure system 510 is preferably deployed within urban regions aswell as along extended transportation routes.

Each recharging station 502 preferably comprises at least one inventoryof motor-battery units, preferably in the form of a stock of vehiclewheels 450. The stock of vehicle wheels 450 may preferably comprisestandardized units, or may vary in size and configuration to accommodatea range of vehicle types and/or manufacturer standards. Each rechargingstation 502 preferably comprises at least one motor-battery exchangingapparatus 504 structured and arranged to assist exchanging electricallydepleted motor-battery vehicle wheels 450 for electrically-chargedvehicle wheels 450 from the inventory.

In a highly preferred embodiment of the system, motor-battery exchangingapparatus 504 comprises one or more automated robotic devices,identified herein as automated wheel-mounting apparatus 513. Automatedwheel-mounting apparatus 513 are preferably structured and arranged toprovide substantially automated removal and mounting of vehicle wheels450. Such wheel-changing “robots” automatically replace a depletedvehicle wheel 450 with a fully charged one within a few minutes,allowing the user to drive on long distance trips without undergoing thetime-consuming “recharging” process en route. The automated replacementprocess preferably occurs while the driver remains in vehicle 460.Similar wheel installation robots are currently used on conventional carassembly lines today.

Each recharging station 502 preferably comprises at least onemotor-battery charger 512 structured and arranged to rechargeelectrically-depleted motor-battery units on site. Motor-battery charger512 is preferably equipped with at least one motor-battery analyzer 514preferably adapted to determine the physical condition of anelectrically-depleted motor-battery unit. This preferably includesgathering data associated with hours of operation, ability to holdcharge, and charge status. Motor-battery analyzer 514 preferablycomprises at least one charge-status tester 516 to test the chargestatus of the electrically-depleted motor-battery unit. This allows thesystem the ability to prorate a driver for any remaining charge that mayreside within the vehicle wheel 450 being replaced.

Recharging of electrically-depleted vehicle wheels 450 is preferablyaccomplished on site using, in part, at least one renewable electricalpower source, as shown. Such renewable electrical sources preferablycomprise solar photovoltaic (PV) power 700, wind power 702, biogasproduction, etc. Wind power 702 may preferably be supplied bymotor-battery equipped wind turbines 703 capable of generating andstoring electrical energy. Such wind turbines 703 may preferablycomprise a modular arrangement of alternate radial motor battery 432organized around a wind driven shaft. Motor-battery equipped windturbines 703 further eliminate the hazards of the batteries beinginstalled on the ground as well as provide extra energy due to theelimination of the “I squared R” losses found in conventional systems.

Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill in the artwill now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances, consideringsuch issues as cost, operator preference, etc., other arrangements suchas, for example, automated storage and handling apparatus,transportation systems designed to deliver remotely-charged wheels to aservice site, systems to automatically match a particular vehicle andappropriately compatible wheel design, etc., may suffice.

The above described apparatus arrangements of vehicle wheel 450 andtransportation infrastructure system 510 enabled the development ofpreferred vehicle configurations and operation methods. In accordancewith another preferred embodiment hereof, motor-battery system 100preferably provides a motor-battery vehicle system 600 related to theproduction and operation of a motorless-vehicle chassis 602. Byutilizing the technology described herein, vehicle 460 is preferablymanufactured and supplied to the using entity with no battery, no motor,and no tires. There are several reasons why this preferred arrangementis beneficial to the transportation-vehicle field. First among these isthat the buyer/lessee of vehicle 460 greatly reduce their initialeconomic expenditure associated with the vehicle acquisition. Currently,a conventional electric drive motor and battery pack constitutes morethan half of the total cost of a conventional electric vehicle.Motor-battery vehicle system 600 provides for an alternate means ofsupplying the motor and batteries, preferably by leasing the motorbattery-equipped vehicle wheels 450 to the entity or entities associatedwith the operation of vehicle 460, as further described below.

In accordance with another preferred embodiment hereof, this inventionprovides method 650 related to equipping to the motorless-vehiclechassis 602 of vehicle 460 with motor-battery equipped vehicle wheels450. FIG. 47 is a flow diagram illustrating the preferred steps ofmethod 650 according to motor-battery system 100.

In initial preferred step 652 of method 650, an offer to provide atleast one motor-containing vehicle wheel, more preferably at least onemotor-battery equipped vehicle wheel 450 is preferably made to at leastone entity associated with the operation of such at least onemotorless-vehicle chassis 602. Such an entity may preferably compriseprivate vehicle owners, a company operating a fleet of vehicles, agovernmental entity, etc. Upon reading this specification, those withordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, under appropriatecircumstances, considering such issues as industry standards, userpreference, etc., additional sub-steps such as, for example, arrangingfor the establishment of standards for wheel sizes, mountingmethodologies, manufacturing of the motor-battery equipped wheels, etc.,may suffice.

In subsequent preferred step 654, at least one contract is establishedproviding for the use of the motor-battery equipped vehicle wheels 450by such entity. In preferred step 656, at least one lease arrangementenabling such use by the entity is preferably established within thecontract. By allowing the consumer to lease vehicle wheels 450, theentity gains the advantage of low initial acquisition cost along withassurance of continuous mechanical reliability. In addition, leasing ofthe technology provides the entity with the ability to upgrade the motorbattery with the latest technology over time, without replacing theentire motorless-vehicle chassis 602. In the resulting marketplace, boththe manufacturer of motorless-vehicle chassis 602 and supplier of wheels450 benefit from simplified and cost-effective manufacturing along witha highly flexible market utilizing standardized vehicle components.

In preferred step 658, a provision for delivery of vehicle wheels 450 tosuch entity. Such delivery is preferably enabled by the establishment ofa plurality of recharging stations 502, as generally described in FIG.46 (and identified herein as preferred step 660). Each such rechargingstation 502 is preferably supplied with at least one transactionprocessor 665 (see FIG. 46) to process at least one payment transactionassociated with the exchange of such at least one electrically-depletedmotor-containing vehicle wheels 450 with electrically-chargedmotor-containing vehicle wheels 450.

Even further, method 650 preferably comprises the preferred step 668 ofexchanging at least one electrically-depleted motor-containing wheels450 of a motorless-vehicle chassis 602 with at least oneelectrically-charged motor-containing vehicle wheel 450 from on-siteinventory; testing the charge status of the motor battery; andprocessing at least one payment transaction associated with theexchange. Upon reading this specification, those with ordinary skill inthe art will now appreciate that, under appropriate circumstances,considering such issues as cost, operator preference, etc., otherarrangements such as, for example, utilizing barcode scanning technologyto complete a transaction, utilizing RFID technology to complete atransaction, utilizing GPS or cellular technology to complete atransaction, etc., may suffice. Upon reading this specification, thosewith ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as cost, operatorpreference, market factors, etc., other re-fueling arrangements such as,for example, utilizing “large” motor-battery systems, for example, foruse under the hood or in the trunk, etc., of the vehicle, which maysimilarly be exchanged at refueling stations, may suffice.

Those skilled in the art will now appreciate that motor-battery system100 is adaptable to be beneficially utilized within many areas oftechnology ranging from miniature electro-battery drives to largeon-road vehicle applications.

Those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, energy costs, etc., other more-exotic motor-batteryconfigurations such as, for example, combining motor-battery technologywith an internal combustion engine, etc., may suffice. In such anexample, the metallic piston of an internal combustion engine isreplaced with a piston of the same dimensions but constructed out ofhigh-temperature ceramic magnet materials. A motor battery coil is madeto slide over the outside diameter of the cylinder. The resultingarrangement preferably operates like a solenoid. When operating in theelectric-motor mode the magnetic field produced by the coil pulls themagnetic piston up. At the top of the stroke the controller commutatesthe direction of the current in the motor-battery coil. This reversesthe polarity of the coil and repels the magnetic piston downward. Boththe intake and exhaust valves are held open while the system is in theelectric motor mode so there is no compression force to oppose themovement of the piston. In the range extending mode the controllerpreferably turns the motor-battery coil off and sets the intake andexhaust valves to operate normally. Fuel is preferably injected and theengine performs as a conventional internal combustion engine. Themotor-battery coils can also be turned on while the system is in the gasengine mode. The up-and-down motion of the magnetic piston then inducesa current in the motor-battery coils to recharge them. Such an apparatuswill also function in this manner during regenerative braking. In amulti-cylinder configuration one of the cylinders can operatecontinuously in this mode to provide the current required to power thevehicle's lights and other accessories.

Those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, energy costs, etc., yet other motor-battery configurations,such as, for example, an extension on the cylinder wall configured as amagnetic shoe around the centerline of the crankshaft, may suffice. Insuch an arrangement, the throw rod is configured as a disk on which aset of permanent magnets are affixed. A controller opens both the intakeand exhaust valves when the system is to act as an electric motor. Underextended range operation the control shuts off the battery cells andoperates the valves and fuel injectors in the normal fashion. Duringregenerative braking both valves are again opened and the cell is putback into active mode to be recharged by the rotating magnets.

Those with ordinary skill in the art will now appreciate that, underappropriate circumstances, considering such issues as advances intechnology, energy costs, etc., yet other motor-battery configurations,such as, for example, a Sterling cycle combined with motor-batterytechnology, may suffice. In such an example, a Sterling cycle tri-modesystem operating as described for the dual-mode system with theexception that the engine may comprise two ceramic magnetic pistons. Aunique characteristic of such a Sterling cycle engine is that if it isforced to rotate by an external motive force it will perform as anair-conditioner compressor.

The inherent compactness achievable in the preferred embodiments ofmotor-battery system 100 results in significant reductions intransmission losses within the system (power equaling the currentsquared times resistance). More significantly, the use of applicant'smotor-battery system 100 effectively expands the potential performanceof most electrically driven systems by combining essential electricmotor and electrochemical battery functions into a common set ofstructures, thus reducing overall size and mass of the system.

Applicant has described applicant's preferred embodiments of thisinvention, it will be understood that the broadest scope of thisinvention includes modifications such as diverse shapes, sizes, andmaterials. Such scope is limited only by the below claims as read inconnection with the above specification. Further, many other advantagesof applicant's invention will be apparent to those skilled in the artfrom the above descriptions and the below claims.

1. A method related to making at least one wound magnetic field coil fora rotary electric device, such at least one wound magnetic field coilcomprising at least one magnetically conductive core, said methodcomprising the steps of: a) providing at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell; and b) winding said atleast one electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell around the atleast one core to form at least one magnetic-field-producingbattery-coil; c) wherein such at least one electrically-conductivethin-film battery cell is structured and arranged to produce electricalcurrent derived from at least one electrochemical process; and d) suchelectrical current is usable to generate at least one magnetic fieldwithin said at least one magnetic-field-producing battery-coil.
 2. Themethod according to claim 1 wherein such at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell comprises: a) at leastone supportive substrate structured and arranged to support i) at leastone cathode current collector, ii) in operative relation with such atleast one cathode current collector, at least one cathode; iii) inoperative relation with such at least one cathode, at least oneelectrolyte structured and arranged to support such at least oneelectrochemical process, iv) in operative relation with such at leastone electrolyte, at least one anode, and v) in operative relation withsuch at least one anode, at least one anode current collector; b)wherein such at least one supportive substrate comprises at least onesubstantially flexible ribbon having a longitudinal length and a maximumwidth; and c) wherein such longitudinal length is substantially greaterthan such maximum width.
 3. The method according to claim 1 wherein suchat least one electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell comprises atleast one lithium-based chemistry.
 4. The method according to claim 1further comprising the step of incorporating such at least onemagnetic-field-producing battery-coil into at least one electromotivedevice structured and arranged to produce at least one useablemechanical force.
 5. A combined electric motor-battery systemcomprising: a) at least one stator and at least one rotor separated fromeach other by at least one radial air gap for electromotive interactiontherebetween; b) wherein said at least one stator comprises at least onestator magnetic field source structured and arranged to produce at leastone salient magnetic pole oriented so as to face said at least one rotorthrough such radial air gap; c) wherein said at least one rotorcomprises at least one rotor magnetic field source structured andarranged to produce at least one salient magnetic pole oriented so as toface said at least one stator through such radial air gap; d) wherein atleast one of said at least one stator magnetic field source and said atleast one rotor magnetic field source comprises at least one woundmagnetic field coil; e) wherein said at least one wound magnetic fieldcoil comprises i) at least one core, and ii) at least one field winding;f) wherein said at least one field winding is structured and arranged toproduce electrical current derived from at least one electrochemicalprocess; g) wherein such electrical current is used to energize said atleast one wound magnetic field coil to produce such at least one salientmagnetic pole; and h) wherein electromotive interaction generatedbetween at least two of such at least one salient magnetic poles isconverted into motive power output.
 6. The combined electricmotor-battery system of claim 5 wherein said at least one field windingcomprises at least one electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell.7. The combined electric motor-battery system of claim 5 wherein said atleast one electrically-conductive thin-film battery cell comprises: a)at least one supportive substrate structured and arranged to support i)at least one cathode current collector, ii) in operative relation withsuch at least one cathode current collector, at least one cathode; iii)in operative relation with such at least one cathode, at least oneelectrolyte structured and arranged to support such at least oneelectrochemical process, iv) in operative relation with such at leastone electrolyte, at least one anode, and v) in operative relation withsuch at least one anode, at least one anode current collector; b)wherein such at least one supportive substrate comprises at least onesubstantially flexible ribbon having a longitudinal length substantiallygreater that its maximum width.
 8. The combined electric motor-batterysystem of claim 5 further comprising: a) at least one at least onecommutator structured and arranged to dynamically control current flowwithin said at least one wound magnetic field coil; b) wherein said atleast one stator comprises a plurality of said at least one woundmagnetic field coils, each one structured and arranged to generate onesuch at least one salient magnetic pole of said at least one stator; c)wherein said at least one rotor comprises a plurality of permanentmagnets, each one structured and arranged to generate one such at leastone salient magnetic pole of said at least one rotor; d) wherein saidplurality of permanent magnets are arranged along at least one outerperiphery of said at least one rotor; e) wherein said at least one rotoris rotatably supported within said at least one stator; f) wherein eachsuch at least one salient magnetic pole of said at least one rotorcomprises at least one relational arrangement to each such at least onesalient magnetic pole of said at least one stator enabling, incombination with the dynamic control of current flow within saidplurality of said at least one wound magnetic field coils, rotation ofsaid at least one rotor due to armature reaction between said at leastone stator and said at least one rotor.
 9. The combined electricmotor-battery system of claim 6 wherein said at least oneelectrically-conductive thin-film battery cell comprises at least onelithium-based chemistry.
 10. A method related to converting aconventional rotary electric device to at least one combined electricmotor-battery, said method comprising the steps of: a) substantiallyremoving conventional magnetic windings from at least one core of theconventional rotary electric device; b) providing at least oneelectrically-conductive battery cell; and c) forming said at least oneelectrically-conductive battery cell around the at least one core toform at least one magnetic-field-producing battery-coil; d) wherein suchat least one electrically-conductive battery cell is structured andarranged to produce electrical current derived from at least oneelectrochemical process; and e) such electrical current is usable togenerate at least one magnetic field within said at least onemagnetic-field-producing battery-coil.
 11. A power system related to theproduction of at least one useable mechanical force using at least onemagnetic field source structured and arranged to produce at least onemagnetic field having lines of flux extending in at least one firstdirection, said power system comprising: a) at least onemagnetically-conductive substrate to provide magnetically-conductivesupport; b) deposited on said at least one magnetically-conductivesubstrate, at least one electrochemical energy source structured andarranged to produce at least one electrical potential from at least oneelectrochemical process; and c) at least one positioner structured andarranged to position said at least one electrochemical energy source inat least one position of interaction with such at least one magneticfield; d) wherein said at least one electrochemical energy sourcecomprises at least one electrode structured and arranged to conduct atleast one flow of electrical current, derived from such at least oneelectrical potential, in at least one second direction perpendicular tosuch first direction; e) wherein interaction between such at least oneelectric current and such at least one magnetic field produces at leastone interaction force acting substantially directly on said at least oneelectrochemical energy source in a third direction perpendicular to bothsuch at least one first direction and said at least one seconddirection; and f) wherein action of such at least one interaction forceon said at least one electrochemical energy source produces such atleast one useable mechanical force.
 12. The power system according toclaim 11 wherein: a) said at least one electrochemical energy sourcecomprises at least one electrolytic layer structured and arranged tosupport such at least one electrochemical process; b) said at least oneelectrode comprises at least one anode layer and at least one cathodelayer, c) said at least one anode layer and said at least one cathodelayer are structured and arranged to be in interactive relation withsaid at least one electrolytic layer; and d) said at least one anodelayer, said at least one cathode layer, and said at least oneelectrolytic layer are formed substantially by at least one thin-filmdeposition process.
 13. The power system according to claim 12 whereinsaid at least one magnetically-conductive substrate comprises at leastone substantially ferrous material.
 14. The power system according toclaim 12 wherein: a) said at least one substantially ferrous materialcomprises at least one electrically isolative coating; and b) said atleast one electrically isolative coating comprises at least one ferrousoxide compound.
 15. The power system according to claim 12 wherein: a)said at least one electrochemical energy source comprises a plurality ofdiscrete current-producing cells, each discrete current-producing cellof said plurality being structured and arranged to produce such at leastone electrical potential from such at least one electrochemical processand such at least one magnetic force in the presence of such at leastone magnetic field; b) said plurality of discrete current-producingcells comprises at least one substantially radial arrangement; and c)such at least one substantially radial arrangement comprises a centralpoint of radial symmetry.
 16. The power system according to claim 15wherein a) said at least one magnetically-conductive substrate comprisesat least one disk-shaped member having a center point substantiallycoincidental with said central point of radial symmetry; and b) saidplurality of discrete current-producing cells are arranged substantiallysymmetrically about said center point.
 17. The power system according toclaim 16 wherein: a) said at least one disk-shaped member comprises atleast one substantially planar support surface structured and arrangedto support said plurality of discrete current-producing cells; b) saidplurality of discrete current-producing cells preferably comprises atleast one stacked organization preferably aligned substantiallyperpendicular to said at least one substantially planar support surface.18. The power system according to claim 13: a) wherein such at least onemagnetic field source is structured and arranged to produce such atleast one magnetic field; b) wherein said at least one positioner isstructured and arranged to position said at least one disk-shaped memberand said at least one magnetic field source to provide at least onedirect interaction of said at least one electrochemical energy sourcewith such at least one magnetic force; c) wherein said at least onepositioner comprises i) at least one magnetic field aligner structuredand arranged to align at least one line of magnetic flux, of such atleast one magnetic field, in at least one first direction, ii) at leastone electric-current aligner structured and arranged to align such atleast one flow of electrical current conducted by said at least oneelectrode, in at least one second direction substantially perpendicularto such first direction, and iii) at least one motion enabler structuredand arranged to enable relative motion between said at least oneelectrochemical energy source and said at least one magnetic fieldsource; d) wherein such at least one interaction force produces suchrelative motion; and e) wherein such at least one useable mechanicalforce is extractable from such relative motion.
 19. The power systemaccording to claim 18 wherein: a) said at least one motion enablercomprises at least one rotator structured and arranged to allow rotationabout at least one rotational axis; b) such at least one rotational axiscomprises an orientation non-parallel with such third direction; and c)such at least one interaction force produces at least one rotationaltorque about said at least one rotational axis.
 20. The power systemaccording to claim 18 wherein said at least one magnetic field sourcecomprises at least one electromagnetic field generator.
 21. The powersystem according to claim 18 wherein said at least one magnetic fieldsource comprises at least one permanent magnet.
 22. The power systemaccording to claim 19 further comprising: a) at least one currentcontroller structured and arranged to control movement of such at leastone electric current within said at least one electrode; b) wherein suchcontrol of such at least one electric current within such at least onemagnetic field controls the level of such at least one interactionforce.
 23. The power system according to claim 22 wherein: a) saidplurality of discrete current-producing cells are electrically coupledto form at least one parallel circuit; and b) said at least one currentcontroller comprises at least one current reverser structured andarranged to controllably reverse the direction of current flow withinsaid at least one electrode.
 24. The power system according to claim 23wherein said at least one electrochemical cell comprises at least onesecondary-type cell.
 25. The power system according to claim 24 whereinsaid at least one current controller comprises at least one rechargingcircuit.
 26. The power system according to claim 23 further comprising:a) at least one vehicular wheel structured and arrange to providingrolling vehicular motivation using such rotational torque; b) whereinsaid at least one vehicular wheel comprises at least one vehicular mountstructured and arranged to removably mount said at least one vehicularwheel to at least one vehicle.
 27. The power system according to claim26: a) wherein such at least one vehicle is structured and arrange tomountably receive said at least one vehicular wheel; b) wherein said atleast one vehicle comprises i) at least one monitor structured andarranged to monitor the operational status of said at least onevehicular wheel, and ii) at least one user control structured andarranged to provide at least partial user control of the operation ofsaid at least one current controller.
 28. A transportationinfrastructure system, related to servicing of at least onemotor-battery equipped vehicle, said transportation infrastructuresystem, comprising: a) a plurality of recharging stations spaced alongat least one route appropriate for vehicular travel use; b) wherein eachrecharging station of said plurality comprises i) at least one stock ofmotor-battery units, each one structured and arranged to be exchangeablewith at least one motor-battery unit of such at least one motor-batteryequipped vehicle, ii) at least one motor-battery exchanging apparatusstructured and arranged to assist exchanging at least one electricallydepleted motor-battery unit of such at least one motor-battery equippedvehicle with at least one electrically-charged motor-battery of said atleast one stock of motor-battery units; c) wherein each saidmotor-battery unit comprises i) at least one magnetic field sourcestructured and arranged to produce at least one magnetic field, and ii)at least one battery structured and arranged to produce electricalcurrent from at least one electrochemical process; d) wherein said atleast one battery comprises at least one battery electrode structuredand arranged to conduct at least one flow of such electrical current; e)wherein interaction between such at least one flow of such electriccurrent and such at least one magnetic field produces at least oneelectromotive force acting substantially directly on said at least onebattery electrode; and f) wherein said at least one motor-battery unitis structured and arranged to convert such at least one electromotiveforce to at least one mechanical force usable to motivate such at leastone motor-battery equipped vehicle.
 29. The transportationinfrastructure system according to claim 28 wherein each rechargingstation of said plurality further comprises at least one motor-batterycharger structured and arranged to produce such at least oneelectrically charged motor-battery by recharging such at least oneelectrically-depleted motor-battery unit.
 30. The transportationinfrastructure system according to claim 28 wherein each rechargingstation of said plurality further comprises: a) at least onemotor-battery analyzer structured and arranged to analyze such at leastone electrically-depleted motor-battery unit; b) wherein said at leastone motor-battery analyzer comprises at least one charge-status testerstructured and arranged to test the charge status of such at least oneelectrically-depleted motor-battery unit.
 31. The transportationinfrastructure system according to claim 28 wherein said at least onemotor-battery unit comprises: a) at least one vehicular wheel structuredand arrange to providing rolling vehicular motivation using such atleast one mechanical force; b) wherein said at least one vehicular wheelcomprises at least one vehicular mount structured and arranged toremovably mount said at least one vehicular wheel to at least onevehicle.
 32. The transportation infrastructure system according to claim28 wherein said at least one motor-battery exchanging apparatuscomprises at least one automated wheel-mounting apparatus structured andarranged to provide substantially automated removal and mounting of saidvehicular wheel.
 33. A motor-battery vehicle system related tomotivating at least one motorless-vehicle chassis comprising: a) atleast one vehicle wheel structured and arranged to provide rollingsupport of such at least one motorless-vehicle chassis; b) wherein eachsaid at least one vehicle wheel comprises i) contained substantiallywithin said at least one vehicle wheel, at least one electrical motorstructured and arranged to apply to said at least one vehicle wheel atleast one rotational force usable to motivate such at least onemotorless-vehicle chassis, ii) contained substantially within said atleast one vehicle wheel, at least one battery structured and arranged tosupply operating electrical current to said at least one electricalmotor, and iii) at least one mount structured and arranged torotationally mount said at least one vehicle wheel to such at least onevehicle chassis; c) wherein motivation of such at least onemotorless-vehicle chassis by said at least one vehicle wheel isaccomplished by operation of said at least one electrical motorutilizing such operating electrical current provided substantiallyentirely by said at least one battery contained substantially withinsaid at least one vehicle wheel.
 34. A method, related to motivating atleast one motorless-vehicle chassis, comprising the steps of: a)offering to provide at least one motor-containing vehicle wheelstructured and arranged to provide rolling motivation of such at leastone vehicle chassis when mounted thereon; b) arranging with at least oneentity associated with the operation of such at least onemotorless-vehicle chassis, at least one contract providing for the useof such at least one motor-containing vehicle wheel by such at least oneentity; and c) receiving from such at least one entity, at least onecompensation for such use; d) providing for delivery of such at leastone motor-containing vehicle wheel to such at least one entity.
 35. Themethod according to claim 34 further comprising the step ofestablishing, within such at least one contract, at least one leasearrangement for such use of such at least one motor-containing vehiclewheel by such at least one entity.
 36. The method according to claim 34further comprising the step of providing within each such at least onemotor-containing vehicle wheel, at least one battery structured andarranged to electrically power such at least one motor-containingvehicle wheel.
 37. The method according to claim 36 further comprisingthe steps of: a) establishing a plurality of recharging stations spacedalong at least one route appropriate for vehicular travel use; and b)providing within each such recharging station of said plurality i) atleast one stock of such at least one motor-containing vehicle wheels,ii) at least one wheel-exchanging apparatus structured and arranged toassist exchanging at least one electrically-depleted motor-containingvehicle wheel of such at least one motorless-vehicle chassis with atleast one electrically-charged motor-containing vehicle wheel of such atleast one stock, iii) at least one charge-status tester structured andarranged to test the charge status of such at least one battery, and iv)at least one transaction processor to process at least one paymenttransaction associated with the exchange of such at least oneelectrically-depleted motor-containing vehicle wheel with such at leastone electrically-charged motor-containing vehicle wheel.
 38. The methodaccording to claim 37 further comprising the steps of: a) exchanging atleast one electrically-depleted motor-containing vehicle wheel of suchat least one motorless-vehicle chassis with at least oneelectrically-charged motor-containing vehicle wheel of such at least onestock; b) testing the charge status of such at least one battery; and c)processing at least one payment transaction associated with the exchangeof such at least one electrically-depleted motor-containing vehiclewheel with such at least one electrically-charged motor-containingvehicle wheel.
 39. A power system comprising: a) at least one magneticfield source structured and arranged to produce at least one magneticfield having lines of flux extending in at least one first direction; b)at least one electrochemical energy source structured and arranged toproduce at least one electrical potential from at least oneelectrochemical process; and c) at least one positioner structured andarranged to position said at least one electrochemical energy source inat least one position of interaction with such at least one magneticfield; d) wherein said at least one electrochemical energy sourcecomprises at least one electrode structured and arranged to conduct atleast one flow of electrical current, derived from such at least oneelectrical potential, in at least one second direction perpendicular tosuch first direction; e) wherein interaction between such at least oneelectric current and such at least one magnetic field produces at leastone magnetic force acting substantially directly on said at least oneelectrochemical energy source in a third direction perpendicular to bothsuch at least one first direction and said at least one seconddirection; and f) wherein action of such at least one magnetic force onsaid at least one electrochemical energy source produces at least oneuseable mechanical force.